Superior Capsular Reconstruction for Failed Previous Rotator Cuff Repair: A Case Report

Within a subset of patients with rotator cuff repair, optimal healing does not occur and pain and dysfunction continue. The current patient failed to properly heal six months after an initial rotator cuff repair and, sustained a re-tear of the rotator cuff. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is often recommended for patients with poor previous surgical outcomes. However, due to the age, the permanent destruction of the glenohumeral articular surfaces, complications rates and functional level of the patients 3,6, it was determined the patient would benefit from the superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) instead. Patient reports immediate improvements in pain scores and shoulder flexion both actively and passively at 4 weeks follow-up session. Early results are promising, and we seek further evaluation to demonstrate that this technique modification will lead to a long-term improvement.