Arthroscopy-Assisted Lower Trapezius Transfer Using Doubled Peroneus Longus Autograft as an Interposition Graft.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears present significant functional deficits.
• Arthroscopy-assisted lower trapezius transfer is a preferred surgical option for these tears, particularly without glenohumeral arthritis.
• Current reliance on Achilles tendon allografts faces limitations regarding cost and availability, especially in developing nations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel surgical technique for arthroscopy-assisted lower trapezius transfer using a doubled peroneus longus autograft.
• To present the surgical steps, technical considerations, and potential benefits of this autograft approach.
• To offer an alternative to allografts for managing massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Main Methods:

• Detailed description of the surgical procedure for harvesting and preparing a doubled peroneus longus autograft.
• Explanation of the arthroscopic technique for transferring the graft to reconstruct the posterosuperior rotator cuff.
• Discussion of surgical nuances and potential intraoperative challenges.

Main Results:

• The technique utilizes readily available autograft tissue, addressing cost and availability concerns.
• The doubled peroneus longus autograft provides a viable alternative for rotator cuff reconstruction.
• Potential advantages include reduced donor site morbidity compared to some other autograft options.

Conclusions:

• The peroneus longus autograft is a feasible and potentially advantageous alternative for arthroscopy-assisted lower trapezius transfer in massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.
• This technique enhances treatment accessibility, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• Further studies are warranted to evaluate long-term functional outcomes and compare with allograft reconstructions.