Superior Capsular Reconstruction with Fascia Lata Allograft for Irreparable Supraspinatus Tendon Tears

Superior capsular reconstruction is a recently described procedure for the treatment of irreparable supraspinatus tendon tears. Graft options that have been previously described include autogenous fascia lata and decellularized dermal graft. No studies were published with the use of fascia lata allograft. The purpose of this technical note is to describe the surgical technique of superior capsular reconstruction using fascia lata allograft. The procedure is performed by arthroscopic visualization, with the patient positioned in the lateral decubitus position. The authors describe a technique based on the use of a double-pulley knot in the glenoid and greater tuberosity, facilitating the procedure and allowing the graft to be brought into the subacromial space in the definitive position, with the appropriate tension. The allografts are available from this institution's tissue bank, cryopreserved and submitted to microbiological and histopathological evaluation. Superior capsular reconstruction is a promising surgery. The technique described in the present technical note shows a viable arthroscopic alternative, with a smaller number of anchors when compared with other techniques.