The subacromial spacer system for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: A retrospective study of 47 patients with a two-year follow-up

Abstract

Background Numerous surgical options are available for the management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, but there are no current definitive guidelines concerning the optimal treatment modality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a biodegradable subacromial spacer (InSpace) implantation in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears. Methods A retrospective study was conducted involving 47 patients treated with the InSpace balloon between 2016 and 2018. Shoulder function was assessed using Constant Score. Pain was scored using a visual analogue scale, with scores ranging from 0 to 10. Results At an average follow-up of 24.6 months (range 12–38), the Constant Score had improved from 39.4 to 71.5 points (p < 0.0001). The range of motion, a main component of Constant Score, was improved after two years, from 27.6 to 42.2 points (p < .001). The visual analogue scale score decreased from 6.32 at baseline to a mean score of 2.7 points (p < 0.0001). Discussion Arthroscopic deployment of the InSpace device was found to be a safe, reliable treatment option in patients with painful irreparable rotator cuff tears, with meaningful improvement in shoulder function without serious complications.