Comparison of Partial Rotator Cuff Repair vs. Superior Capsular Reconstruction for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

Superior capsular reconstruction is one treatment option for massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears. The superior shoulder capsule, a thin membranous structure located on the inferior surface of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, is often torn in this type of rotator cuff tear. In superior capsular reconstruction, this structure is reconstructed with acellular dermal allograft.

Partial rotator cuff repair can be performed, in conjunction with other procedures such as subacromial decompression and biceps tenodesis, when a rotator cuff tear is not amenable to a complete repair.