Arthroscopic repair of large and massive rotator cuff tears—“sandwich augmentation” with the long head of the biceps tendon: a technical note

Abstract

For most shoulder surgeons, addressing massive rotator cuff tears that have retracted ends poses a significant challenge. This study introduces a technique, termed the “sandwich augmentation technique,” which incorporates the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) into a single-row rotator cuff repair. The procedure, performed arthroscopically with the patient in the lateral decubitus position, involves attaching the LHBT and rotator cuff tissues together to the greater tuberosity. This effectively sandwiches them within the rotator cuff footprint. The goal of this technique is to enhance the thickness of the fully interposed cuff margin, thereby providing better support for the repair. The sandwich augmentation technique, which integrates the biceps into the rotator cuff repair, has demonstrated positive clinical outcomes and moderate anatomical results. It also prevents superior migration of the humeral head in cases of large or massive rotator cuff tears. Further research is required to assess the long-term effectiveness of this procedure.