Mini Invasive Axillary Approach and Arthroscopic Humeral Head Interference Screw Fixation for Latissimus Dorsi Transfer in Massive and Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears

As the number of shoulder surgeries is increasing, the challenges of treating the massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears pose an operative challenge for the shoulder surgeons. The purpose of this study is to propose a new mini invasive axillary incision ( 5 cm) for harvesting latissimus dorsi (LD) tendon and arthroscopic-assisted interference screw fixation of the transfer on the humeral head for the treatment of massive and irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. We describe our technique. The incision is minimized with the help of ultrasound Doppler-guided identification of the LD pedicle preoperatively. This study also makes clear how to maintain the tension on the pedicle of the LD uniform before and after the fixation of the transfer. During our experience of 17 cases from November 2007 to July 2009, we had good-to-excellent results in patient satisfaction. The clinical outcomes were not indifferent from the other methods of fixation.