A new approach to the subacromial space: Technique and 2-year results in 28 rotator-cuff repair cases

Abstract

We present a new approach to the subacromial space, consisting essentially of an osseous detachment of the deltoid muscle from the anterior and lateral rim of the acromion including the osseous origin of the coraco-acromial ligament. After acromioplasty and an eventual reconstruction of a torn rotator cuff, Kessler-sutures provide stable transosseous repair of the deltoid muscle. This method generally allows immediate active shoulder motion. 25 of 28 patients with rotator cuff ruptures alone or in combination with an impingement syndrome had good results according to the UCLA-score 2 years postoperatively. No serious complications regarding the function of the deltoid muscle or any failure of the accompanying acromioplasty occurred.