Anterior Capsule Reconstruction for Irreparable Subscapularis Tears

Abstract

A subscapularis complete tear presents its own challenges in management. The glenohumeral biomechanics and force couple are reliant on a competent and functioning subscapularis muscle. An irreparable subscapularis makes those same challenges even more difficult to address. Traditionally, this problem has been addressed with tendon transfers, including pectoralis major or latissimus dorsi. These techniques can alter the ideal biomechanics of the shoulder and have high rates or failure. Iliotibial autograft or tibialis anterior have also been wrought with high failure rates. Recently, the superior capsular reconstruction has been described for irreparable tears of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus. Theoretically, this procedure can act as a check rein against subluxation, and may serve to reconnect the force couples of the rotator cuff. Anterior escape may represent a similar challenge when the irreparable rotator cuff tendon is the subscapularis. To address this, we describe an open anterior capsule reconstruction technique with an acellular dermal graft. We theorize that this procedure may serve in a similar capacity to its superior capsular counterpart.