Editorial Commentary: Extreme Medial Repair of Massive Rotator Cuff Tears With Atrophy Warrants Caution: Robbing Peter to Pay Paul

Abstract

Medialization of the rotator cuff insertion as a technique to manage massive rotator cuff tears has been described for decades. However, "extreme medialization" as a means to manage massive rotator cuff tears with significant atrophy warrants caution. Nonanatomic reconstruction almost always carries a price. Biomechanical studies show extreme medialization results in significant and obligate restriction of motion, and it is difficult to imagine how extreme medialization would allow normal clinical motion without substantial scapulothoracic compensation. Similarly, obligatory loss of strength could be expected. Based on the current evidence, I will not indicate this technique for my own patients at the present time.