Arthroscope-Assisted Lower Trapezius Transfer for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

Bassem Elhassan, MD (Rochester, MN), describes his rationale for using the lower trapezius tendon transfer to treat massive, irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears, especially those with an external rotation lag. He shares his extensive experience including biomechanical studies, EMG analyses, clinical results, second looks, and his preferred, arthroscopically assisted surgical technique using Achilles allograft augmentation and SwiveLock^® suture anchor fixation.