Abstract
The treatment for massive rotator cuff tear with supraspinatus muscle atrophy has not been established. We reported on satisfactory results in patients who suffered from massive rotator cuff tear with supraspinatus muscle atrophy by infraspinatus muscle transfer (Patte 1990). 5 patients received infraspinatus muscle transfer. There were 4 males and 1 female with an average age of 72 years old (55 to 81 years old). All were affected in the right side (dominant side), The etiology of rotator cuff tear was fell down in 3 and unknown in 2. All patients had rest and motion pain. Contracture of the shoulder was not observed and active-ROM (active range of motion) was under 90 degrees except a patient. The follow-up period averaged 13 months (11 to 15 months). A brace with 30 degrees abduction was applied in all patients after surgery. Passive ROM exercises were started the day after surgery. Active ROM exercise without a brace was started from 6 weeks after surgery. Shoulder pain disappeared in 3 patients, and improved in 2 patients. The average active ROM improved from a preoperative 72° to postoperative 150° in flexion, 68° to 165° in abduction, and 37° to 45° in external rotation, respectively. Supraspinatus test became negative in all patients after surgery. The average JOA score improved from 46 to 92. Infraspinatus muscle transfer is an effective method for massive rotator cuff tear with severe supraspinatus muscle atrophy.
