Comparison of Subscapularis Management and Repair Techniques

• Main Authors: Robin Dunn MD, Christopher D Joyce MD, Jonathan T Bravman MD
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE Publishing 2019-05-01
• Series: Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Arthroplasty
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1177/2471549219848152

Management of the subscapularis tendon is a crucial step during the approach for total shoulder arthroplasty. The method of mobilizing the tendon and the technique used to repair it determine the initial integrity of the subscapularis and impact its capacity to heal. Currently, there exist 3 well-described and well-studied approaches to managing and repairing the subscapularis: subscapularis tenotomy, subscapularis peel, and lesser tuberosity osteotomy. More recently, a subscapularis-sparing approach has been proposed as an option. There is debate in the literature regarding which technique provides optimal strength and stability for subscapularis repair following shoulder arthroplasty. In this symposium, we provide an overview of each of the techniques and review the biomechanical studies comparing them.