Tendon transfers for irreparable rotator cuff tears: An update

Shoulder dysfunction in the setting of irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs) can be treated successfully with different types of tendon transfer: Latissimus dorsi transfer for irreparable posterosuperior RCTs works best for young, active patients with an intact subscapularis, no pseudoparalysis or previous surgery, and a functioning teres minor. A more anatomical transfer for irreparable posterosuperior RCTs is a lower trapezius transfer, and early results are promising. Isolated irreparable tears of the subscapularis can be successfully managed with pectoralis major tendon transfer with a concentric humeral head. However, restricted external rotation (ER) may occur, depending on technique. Pectoralis minor transfer can successfully address combination irreparable tears of the upper border subscapularis and the supraspinatus without significant loss of ER. Rotator cuff arthropathy with ER lag benefits most from a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty and a combination latissimus dorsi and teres major transfer (LDTMT) regardless of patient age. Cite this article: Axe JM. Tendon transfers for irreparable rotator cuff tears: An update. EFORT Open Rev 2016;1:18-24. doi: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.000003