[Early physiotherapy in lower trapezius transfer for massive and irreparable rotator cuff injuries. A case report]

Massive and irreparable lesions of the rotator cuff are frequent between people over 60 years old. Recently, inferior trapezium transference with Achilles tendon allograft has demonstrated very good results to restore shoulder's function. For this kind of surgery, it is recommended an absolute immobilization in shoulder abduction at 90° and maximal external rotation between 6-8 weeks. A 57-year-old woman underwent surgery with a lower trapezius transfer to repair the rotator cuff due to a massive and irreparable tear. She started aquatic physiotherapy 15 days after surgery and conventional physiotherapy treatment at 25 days, with a follow-up of 12 months. Good functional results of the operated shoulder were obtained, which were maintained in the postoperative follow-up. In this case early physiotherapy did not result in any risk of suture dehiscence, loosen or distressing of the allograft.