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Irreparable Isolated Infraspinatus Musculotendinous Lesion Treated With Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer: Case Report
Bo Taek Kim1, Luis Alfredo Miranda2, Jean David Werthel3
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yeosu Baek Hospital, Yeosu, South Korea.
Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports
|June 16, 2025
Summary
Lower trapezius tendon transfer effectively treats irreparable infraspinatus tears, restoring shoulder function and alleviating pain. This surgical approach offers a promising solution for complex rotator cuff injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Musculoskeletal Research
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Irreparable isolated musculotendinous lesions of the infraspinatus significantly impair shoulder function.
- These lesions present challenges due to rapid architectural changes, including atrophy and fatty infiltration.
Observation:
- A case report details two patients (57-year-old female, 66-year-old male) with irreparable isolated infraspinatus musculotendinous lesions.
- Both patients underwent lower trapezius tendon transfer for treatment.
Findings:
- Lower trapezius transfer effectively alleviated pain in both patients.
- The procedure restored active external rotation, contrasting with previous treatment attempts.
Implications:
- Lower trapezius tendon transfer is a viable and effective surgical option for irreparable infraspinatus tears.
- This technique offers biomechanical and anatomical advantages over traditional methods for rotator cuff reconstruction.
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