Scaffolds in the management of massive rotator cuff tears: current concepts and literature review

Injuries to the rotator cuff (RC) are common and could alter shoulder kinematics leading to arthritis. Synthetic and biological scaffolds are increasingly being used to bridge gaps, augment RC repair and enhance healing potential. Our review evaluates the clinical applications, safety and outcome following the use of scaffolds in massive RC repair. A search was performed using EBSCO-Hosted Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane and PubMed using various combinations of the keywords ‘rotator cuff’, ‘scaffold’, ‘biological scaffold’, ‘massive rotator cuff tear’ ‘superior capsular reconstruction’ and ‘synthetic scaffold’ between 1966 and April 2018. The studies that were most relevant to the research question were selected. All articles relevant to the subject were retrieved, and their bibliographies hand searched. Synthetic, biosynthetic and biological scaffolds are increasingly being used for the repair/reconstruction of the rotator cuff. Allografts and synthetic grafts have revealed more promising biomechanical and early clinical results than xenografts. The retear rates and local inflammatory reactions were alarmingly high in earlier xenografts. However, this trend has reduced considerably with newer versions. Synthetic patches have shown lower retear rates and better functional outcome than xenografts and control groups. The use of scaffolds in the treatment of rotator cuff tear continues to progress. Analysis of the current literature supports the use of allografts and synthetic grafts in the repair of massive cuff tears in reducing the retear rate and to provide good functional outcome. Though earlier xenografts have been fraught with complications, results from newer ones are promising. Prospective randomized controlled trials from independent centres are needed before widespread use can be recommended. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:557-566. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180040