Arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction with Teflon felt synthetic graft for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears: Clinical and radiographic results at minimum 2-year follow-up.

Abstract Background Superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) was developed to improve shoulder function and relieve pain in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears. Here, we investigated the clinical and radiographic outcomes and postoperative complications of SCR using a Teflon graft for reconstruction. Methods Thirty-five consecutive patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears underwent SCR with Teflon grafts. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, active shoulder elevation, shoulder muscle strength, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, acromiohumeral distance (AHD), and postoperative complications were investigated. Data obtained before and after surgery were compared by using a paired t-test, chi-squared test, and one-way ANOVA, and data from one-layer-graft SCR (15 patients; mean age, 75.1 years) and three-layer-graft SCR (20 patients; mean age, 76.6 years) were compared by using an unpaired t-test. The average time to final follow-up was 42 months (range, 24 to 69 months). Results SCR using Teflon grafts of either one or three layers significantly improved the ASES score (by 20.8, P = 0.001 for one-layer graft; and by 31.1, P Conclusion SCR using a Teflon graft—especially a three-layer graft—significantly improved shoulder function and shoulder abduction strength, with pain relief and a low rate of postoperative complications. SCR using a Teflon graft can be a viable option for irreparable rotator cuff tears, especially when an autograft or allograft is not available.