Posterior Rotator Cuff-sparing Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: Three Cases

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Shoulder Arthroplasty
• Rotator Cuff Preservation

Background:

• Traditional total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) often involves subscapularis muscle disruption.
• Subscapularis takedown methods include tenotomy, peel, or lesser tuberosity osteotomy.
• These traditional methods can impact postoperative function and recovery.

Observation:

• Novel rotator cuff-sparing approaches for TSA have emerged.
• These include subscapularis split, rotator interval, and sub-subscapularis techniques.
• A specific posterior approach utilizing the interval between teres minor and infraspinatus was employed.

Findings:

• This study describes the first three patients treated with a rotator cuff-sparing posterior approach.
• The technique involved an in situ osteotomy.
• Early results suggest potential benefits in functional outcomes.

Implications:

• Rotator cuff-sparing TSA may lead to reduced postoperative pain.
• Improved rehabilitation and faster recovery are potential benefits.
• Enhanced subscapularis function and strength may be achieved post-surgery.