Arthroscopic Interpositional Bridging Dermal Allograft for Revision Rotator Cuff Repair

Description

This presentation, delivered by Tan Thangarajah, a shoulder and elbow fellow, discusses the outcomes of a novel surgical technique: arthroscopic interpositional bridging dermal allograft for revision rotator cuff repair. Following an introduction that includes acknowledgments to the BOSTAA selection committee and overview of disclosures, Tan highlights the challenges of revision rotator cuff repairs, including a high retear rate of 40% and the complications associated with such surgeries.



The retrospective study involved 26 shoulders in 23 patients who had previously experienced structural failures of cuff repairs. The aim was to assess the clinical and radiological outcomes post-surgery with a follow-up period of at least two years. Findings indicated that patients experienced substantial improvements in functional outcomes as measured by ASES and WORC indexes, although there was a notable reduction in external rotation and no significant improvement in forward flexion. Importantly, despite only 39% of the grafts being intact at follow-up, none of the patients required further surgery, underscoring the effectiveness and potential of the bridging graft technique. The limitations were acknowledged, including incomplete functional outcome data and a relatively short follow-up period. In conclusion, while the technique led to improved outcomes, it came with certain compromises in joint mobility. Tan ends the presentation with thanks to the research team, emphasizing the significance of their work in enhancing procedures for patients with rotator cuff injuries.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-210721

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