Subscapularis Tenotomy Versus Lesser Tuberosity Osteotomy for Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

Subscapularis tenotomy (ST) has been the standard method of mobilizing the subscapularis during the approach to a total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Recently, lesser tuberosity osteotomy (LTO), which avoids subscapularis complications, has gained in popularity. We performed a systematic review to elucidate any differences in clinical or radiographic outcomes between ST and LTO. Using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we identified clinical and/or radiographic TSA studies with minimum mean 2-year follow-up and level I to IV evidence. Twenty studies (1420 shoulders, 1392 patients) were included in the study. The ST group had significantly more patients with osteoarthritis (P = .03) and fewer patients with posttraumatic arthritis (P = .04). At final follow-up, mean (SD) forward elevation improvements were significantly (P < .01) larger for the ST group, +50.9° (17.5°) than for the LTO group, +31.3° (0.9°). Complication rates were almost identical, but the ST group showed a trend (P = .31) toward fewer revisions (10.0% vs 16.2%). There were no differences in Constant scores, pain scores, or radiolucencies. Both approaches (ST, LTO) produced excellent outcomes. ST may result in wider range of motion and fewer revisions, but more studies are needed to further evaluate these results.