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Functional Outcomes and Complications Following Greater Tuberosity Resurfacing for Compensated Cuff Arthropathy
Peter H Sanchez1, Joshua T Rogers2, Matthew G Van Engen2
1University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA.
The Iowa Orthopaedic Journal
|July 3, 2025
Summary
Greater tuberosity resurfacing (GTR) effectively relieved pain and improved function in patients with compensated cuff arthropathy (CCA). This procedure demonstrated high patient satisfaction and low revision rates for irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Shoulder Reconstruction
- Biomaterials in Orthopedics
Background:
- Compensated cuff arthropathy (CCA) results from large, irreparable rotator cuff tears, causing shoulder pain due to humeral head-acromion contact.
- Management of CCA often involves addressing persistent pain and functional deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of greater tuberosity resurfacing (GTR) in managing shoulder pain and functional outcomes in patients with CCA.
- To assess patient satisfaction and complication rates following GTR for irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case-series review of 29 shoulders (28 patients) undergoing GTR between 2014-2021 for irreparable rotator cuff tears.
- Inclusion criteria: failed nonoperative treatment, irreparable rotator cuff, and placement of a metallic implant (HemiCAP) at the supraspinatus insertion.
- Data collected: postoperative range of motion, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, Pennsylvania Shoulder Score (PSS), patient satisfaction, and complications.
Main Results:
- Mean follow-up was 48 months in patients with a mean age of 69 years.
- Mean postoperative ASES and PSS scores were 79 and 74, respectively.
- High patient satisfaction reported, with 62% very satisfied and 17% satisfied; 86% would recommend the procedure.
Conclusions:
- Greater tuberosity resurfacing (GTR) provides significant pain relief and acceptable functional outcomes for patients with compensated cuff arthropathy (CCA).
- The procedure demonstrates low revision rates and high patient satisfaction, making it a viable option for irreparable rotator cuff tears with minimal glenohumeral arthritis.
