Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer Restores Deltoid Function and Shoulder Stability More Effectively Than Superior Capsular Reconstruction in Massive Rotator Cuff Tears.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To compare the biomechanical effectiveness of superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and lower trapezius tendon transfer (LTT) to restore the native shoulder kinematics in managing massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs) using a dynamic shoulder testing system in a cadaver model.

Methods

Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric hemithoraces were tested using a custom-made dynamic shoulder testing system. The conditions tested are intact, supraspinatus tear, MRCT (supraspinatus and infraspinatus tear), LTT with Achilles allograft, SCR combined with LTT, and SCR alone. Measurements included cumulative deltoid force, humeral head translation (HHT), and subacromial peak pressure during humeral abduction at various angles.

Results

Significant reductions in cumulative deltoid force

SUBMITTER: Mungalpara N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12034054 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature