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Updated: May 10, 2026
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Modified Long Head of Biceps Tendon Rerouting and Fixation as Partial Capsular Reconstruction for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears
Published on: March 6, 2026
New solution for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears: the subacromial "biodegradable spacer"
Eugenio Savarese1, Rocco Romeo
1San Carlo Hospital, Potenza, Italy.
Arthroscopy Techniques
|June 15, 2013
Summary
Massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears can be treated with a novel biodegradable balloon spacer. This less invasive technique restores shoulder biomechanics and may bridge patients to reverse arthroplasty.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears cause significant pain and disability.
- Current treatments include debridement, tendon transfer, grafting, and reverse arthroplasty, each with limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel surgical technique for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears using a biodegradable subacromial balloon spacer.
- To evaluate the potential of this technique as a less invasive alternative and a bridging option.
Main Methods:
- Surgical implantation of a biodegradable subacromial balloon spacer (InSpace) between the humeral head and acromion.
- The spacer facilitates smooth, frictionless gliding, aiming to restore shoulder biomechanics.
Main Results:
- The described technique is easy to perform and less invasive than conventional methods.
- The biodegradable balloon spacer may serve as a bridging option for patients awaiting reverse arthroplasty.
Conclusions:
- The InSpace biodegradable balloon spacer offers a promising, less invasive surgical option for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears.
- This technique may improve shoulder function and potentially delay or obviate the need for more complex procedures like reverse arthroplasty.
