Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer vs. Superior Capsular Reconstruction in Massive Rotator Cuff Tears
Comparison Between Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer and Superior Capsular Reconstruction in Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: A Randomised Controlled Trial.
Konstantopoulio-Patission General Hospital of Nea Ionia
44 participants
Jul 2, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to compare the results of two surgical operations for the treatment of massive rotator cuff tears: latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDT) and superior capsular reconstruction (SCR). The main question it wants to answer is which of the two operations provides better functional results, as measured by two patient-reported questionaires: the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and the Constant-Murley score. The patients will be randomly assigned to one of two groups according to the surgery they will undergo (LDT or SCR). They will be examined clinically and asked to fill the questionaires before the surgery, at 6 weeks and at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after surgery.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria1
- Adult patients (over 18 years old). Massive rotator cuff tear diagnosis based on shoulder MRI. -
Exclusion Criteria2
- Advanced glenohumeral arthritis (Hamada ≥3). Deltoid dysfunction. Irrepearable subscapularis tear. Infection. Prior shoulder surgery. Shoulder stiffness.
- \-
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Interventions
Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer is a surgical procedure that aims to restore active range of motion and stability of the shoulder in patients with massive rotator cuff tears. The tendon of the latissimus dorsi muscle is dettached from its insertion in the midbicipital groove of the humerus and reattached to the greater tubetosity. Therefore, the muscle acts as an external rotator, while the forces created pull the humeral head down and stabilize it in the glenoid.
Superior capsular reconstruction is a surgical procedure that aims to restore shoulder stability in patients with massive rotator cuff tears. The superior capsule of the shoulder joint is attached to the greater tuberosity and is therefore often torn in cases of supraspinatus or infraspinatus tears. A fascia lata autograft is used to reconstruct the torn capsule, between the greater tuberosity and the glenoid. Thus, superior migration of the humeral head is prevented, and pain and functionality are improved.
Locations(1)
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NCT07154641