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Updated: Sep 8, 2025

Anterior Capsular Reconstruction with Human Dermal Allograft for Irreparable Subscapularis Tears
Published on: May 9, 2025
Superior Capsule Reconstruction and Lower Trapezius Transfer for Irreparable Posterior-Superior Rotator Cuff Tear: A
Johnathon R McCormick1, Mariano E Menendez1, Alexander J Hodakowski2
1Rush University Medical Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Chicago, Illinois.
Case:
A 49-year-old right-hand-dominant male weightlifter was referred with persistent left shoulder pain, weakness, and range of motion limitations after failed arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and subsequent arthroscopic debridement for a massive posterior-superior supraspinatus and infraspinatus tear. The patient underwent a superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) with lower trapezius (LT) transfer to re-establish rotator cuff function.
Conclusion:
LT transfer in addition to SCR may be a promising modality to treat massive, irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tears in young adults. LT transfer can optimize external rotation, whereas SCR may more adequately address pain and forward elevation.
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