Editorial Commentary: Rotator Cable Compromise May Not Always Result in Poor Shoulder Function

Compromise of the rotator cable has been linked with poor shoulder function in patients with rotator cuff tears. Yet, some patients remain asymptomatic with relatively good function despite rotator cuff tear pathology. Dynamic changes in co-contraction of opposing muscle groups throughout full range of motion have a significant effect on the stability of the shoulder joint. Advancements in biomechanical shoulder models have allowed investigators to diverge from historically static methods to more physiologic dynamic tests, which may provide stronger and more meaningful evidence when applied clinically. Nevertheless, with limitations seen in cadaveric models, the findings observed in live patients under fluoroscopic evaluation with known rotator cuff tear patterns remain a gold standard and practical way to approach the pathologic biomechanical environment of the rotator cuff tear compromised shoulder. The functional status of the glenohumeral joint and the integrity of various aspects of the rotator cuff remain a key part of clinical decision-making in approaches of rotator cuff repair (decompression and debridement, partial repair, margin convergence, augmentations, releases, double-row repairs), tendon transfers, superior capsular reconstructions, resurfacing options, and even considerations of arthroplasty.