Treatment of Massive Rotator Cuff Tears with Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

Most massive rotator cuff tears (MCTs) are often successfully treated with nonoperative treatment; however, various surgical treatment options are available if conservative management fails. Several joint preserving techniques for MCT are commonly used, but the options are limited if an MCT is irreparable. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is gaining popularity over hemiarthroplasty as a treatment option for irreparable MCT, especially if glenohumeral degenerative changes are present. RTSA has been shown to have improved functional outcomes and range of motion postoperatively, particularly in the elderly and patients with pseudoparalysis.