Revision Arthroscopy Assisted Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer for Failed Posterosuperior Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Repair: A Case Report

Miao Wang, Bin-Hui Lin, Wei-Bing Sun, Hong-Jie Wang, Yun-Peng Bai & Jian Sun^*

Department of Orthopaedics, Jiading Branch of Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Jiading District Jiangqiao Hospital, Shanghai 201803, China

Dr. Jian Sun, Master of Degree, Associate Senior Doctor, Department of Orthopaedics, Jiading Branch of Shanghai. General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Jiading District Jiangqiao Hospital, Shanghai

Keywords: Latissimus Dorsi; Tendon Transfer; Arthroscopic Surgery; Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears; Case Report

Abstract

Posterosuperior massive irreparable rotator cuff tear remains one of most challenging pathologies faced by clinical surgeons, typically affecting patients with re-tear after an attempted repair, and there is no expert consensus on the standard treatment method. Due to the severe pathological changes of the rotator cuff, only a few surgical methods are effective in its treatment, among these
methods, latissimus dorsi transfer provides a possible treatment solution for patients. We report a 64-year-old housewife female patient who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Three months later, an arthroscopy assisted latissimus dorsi tendon (LDT) transfer was performed for her, as a result of failed prior rotator cuff repair. At the follow-up one year after revision procedure, the patient exhibited obvious improvements both on shoulder symptoms and functions. Arthroscopy assisted LDT transfer is a promising treatment strategy in dealing with posterosuperior massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, resulting in satisfactory outcomes.

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