Background
The Superior capsular reconstruction is a fairly new technique which compensates for an irrepairable rotator cuff tears. This arthroscopic procedure is minimally invasive and has been seen to give significant improvements to the patient's shoulder strength as well as range of motion.
The rotator cuff helps maintain the appropriate relationship between the humeral head and the glenoid. With this well maintained relationship, the fulcrum created by the glenohumeral joint places appropriate tension on the surround shoulder muscles allowing for a fluid, non-painful range of motion. If the supraspinatus and infraspinatus are torn and cannot be repaired, the biomechanics of the shoulder are disrupted and the shoulder does not function properly. Over time, the humeral head can migrate proximally and lose the appropriate glenohumeral relationship. cause shoulder dysfunction and develop cartilage wear and arthritis in the joint. If the shoulder arrives at this degenerative state, a reverse total shoulder replacement is required. A superior capsular reconstruction seeks to maintain the glenohumeral relationship and adequate biomechanics of the shoulder to prevent shoulder degeneration, improve pain and maintain function.
Surgical Indications
A superior capsular reconstruction is indicated if the following conditions are met:
