Latissimus dorsi transfer for treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears

Massive rotator cuff tendon ruptures are not uncommon in older patients. We propose the transfer of the latissimus dorsi muscle for treatment of irreparable ruptures associated with functional impairment and chronic pain. Five women and 11 men were so treated and reviewed with an average follow-up of 26 months. The mean age was 60 years. Four patients also had subscapularis deficiency. Results were assessed with the Constant score and the Oxford shoulder score. Humeral head position was analysed. Statistical analysis was performed by the Wilcoxon non-parametrical test. The Constant score increased by 24.2% (p = 0.001) with all parameters showing improvement. Nine patients showed improved humeral head positioning in internal rotation. Three of four patients with a deficient subscapularis had unfavourable results. Latissimus dorsi transfer for the treatment of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears leads to a substantial clinical improvement. An intact subscapularis tendon is mandatory.