Surgical Technique for Superior Capsule Reconstruction With 6-mm Acellular Dermal Allograft and Knotless Glenoid Anchors

Abstract Superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) creates a humeral head depressor in the setting of a massive, irreparable rotator cuff tear. Recently, a 6-mm-thick acellular dermal allograft (ACD) has been shown to be noninferior to the standard fascia lata autograft in recreating native shoulder biomechanics. This paper outlines a reproducible means by which to perform an arthroscopic SCR using a 6-mm ACD. A standard diagnostic arthroscopy first assesses the integrity of the subscapularis and infraspinatus tendons. The glenoid anchors are then placed. Accessory anterior and posterolateral portals are made as well as a lateral portal by which to shuttle the graft. Suture management is paramount. Ideally allograft preparation occurs on the back table simultaneously to maintain efficiency. Suture passage through premade holes in the graft, and when the sutures have passed through and been tensioned, the graft is shuttled into place and tied down with medial and lateral row anchors in SpeedBridge fashion. The thickness of ACD has been shown to influence the ability of the reconstructed superior capsule to perform its role as a humeral head depressor. This technique describes the use of a 6-mm-thick ACD to perform an arthroscopic SCR that minimizes both donor-site morbidity and operative time.