Tendon Transfer Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Overseen By Ashfaq S Hasan, MD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: University of Maryland, Baltimore

Disqualifiers: Severe arthritis, Nerve injury, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

Duration: Surgical procedure

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial explores the best way to repair large tears in the shoulder's rotator cuff using muscle tendons from other parts of the body. Researchers compare three techniques: tendons from the lower back (Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer Technique), upper back (Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer Technique), and chest (Pectoralis Tendon Transfer Technique) to determine which method yields better post-surgery results. Individuals with large, hard-to-repair tears in the shoulder muscles and shoulder weakness may be suitable for this study. Participants will be monitored for two years to compare recovery outcomes across the different techniques. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance future treatment options for shoulder injuries.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the study team or your doctor.

What prior data suggests that these tendon transfer techniques are safe for rotator cuff tear repairs?

Research has shown that tendon transfer techniques for repairing shoulder muscles are generally safe. For the Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer, studies have found significant improvements in shoulder movement and function. Many patients recover well, with no major safety issues reported.

The Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer is also well-tolerated and provides long-term benefits for shoulder function and pain relief. The procedure is considered safe, with careful techniques used to prevent nerve damage.

The Pectoralis Tendon Transfer has yielded positive results as well. Long-term studies show significant improvements in shoulder function, with patients experiencing better pain management. This method has been safely used for many years.

Overall, these tendon transfer methods are safe and effective for treating large shoulder tears. Various studies have successfully used them, offering hope for better shoulder function and pain relief. Participants considering these procedures can feel reassured by their positive safety records. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about these tendon transfer techniques for rotator cuff tears because they offer new ways to repair shoulder injuries that could improve function and outcomes. Unlike standard surgical options, which often involve direct repair of the torn tendon or using synthetic materials, these techniques use tendons from other muscles—like the latissimus dorsi, lower trapezius, and pectoralis muscles—to replace damaged rotator cuff tendons. This approach could be particularly beneficial for patients with severe tears or those involving the subscapularis muscle, where traditional methods might not be as effective. By using the body's own tissues, these techniques may also reduce the risk of rejection and improve the strength and mobility of the shoulder joint.

What evidence suggests that this trial's tendon transfer techniques could be effective for rotator cuff tears?

Research has shown that different tendon transfer techniques can effectively repair rotator cuff tears. In this trial, participants will receive treatment based on their specific type of rotator cuff tear. Studies have found that the Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer significantly reduces pain and improves shoulder movement, with patients experiencing better range of motion and less pain. Similarly, the Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer, another treatment option in this trial, has reduced pain and improved shoulder movement. Lastly, the Pectoralis Tendon Transfer, also under study, has proven effective in restoring shoulder stability and function, with long-lasting benefits. Each technique shows promise in aiding recovery from major shoulder muscle tears. ^{1 5 6 7 8}

Who Is on the Research Team?

Ashfaq S Hasan, MD

Principal Investigator

U of Maryland Baltimore

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for adults aged 18-65 with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears and minimal shoulder arthritis. It's not for those with axillary nerve injury, deltoid deficiency, pseudo paralysis, severe shoulder arthritis, a history of tendon transfer or deep infection after surgery.

Inclusion Criteria

I have a severe, unfixable tear in my shoulder's rotator cuff.

My shoulder tendon tear cannot be repaired.

My shoulder arthritis is minimal or not present.

Exclusion Criteria

I have a tear in my shoulder tendon that cannot be fixed.

I have had a deep infection in my shoulder after surgery.

You have a missing or underdeveloped deltoid muscle.

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants undergo tendon transfer surgery using either Latissimus Dorsi, Lower Trapezius, or Pectoralis techniques

Surgical procedure

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for post-surgical outcomes and compared between treatment groups

2 years

Regular follow-up visits

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer Technique
• Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer Technique
• Pectoralis Tendon Transfer Technique

Trial Overview The study compares three muscle tendon transfer techniques to repair large shoulder muscle tears: using tendons from the lower back (Latissimus Dorsi), upper back (Lower Trapezius), or chest (Pectoralis). Outcomes of two different pairings will be evaluated over two years.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Cuff tear without subscapularis tear-Lower Trapezius group Active Control 1 Intervention

Rotator cuff tears excluding the subscapularis muscle repaired using Lower Trapezius tendon

Group II: Cuff tear without subscapularis tear-Latissimus Dorsi group Active Control 1 Intervention

Rotator cuff tears excluding the subscapularis muscle repaired using Latissimus Dorsi tendon

Group III: Cuff tear involving subscapularis tear-Latissimus Dorsi group Active Control 1 Intervention

Rotator cuff tears involving the subscapularis muscle repaired using Latissimus Dorsi tendon

Group IV: Cuff tear involving subscapularis tear-Pectoralis group Active Control 1 Intervention

Rotator cuff tears involving the subscapularis muscle repaired using Pectoralis tendon

Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer Technique is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:

Approved in United States as Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for:

• Irreparable rotator cuff tears involving the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons

Approved in European Union as Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for:

• Massive rotator cuff tears involving the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons

Approved in Canada as Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for:

• Posterosuperior irreparable rotator cuff tears

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Maryland, Baltimore

Lead Sponsor

Trials

729

Recruited

540,000+

Published Research Related to This Trial

Tendon transfer techniques for irreparable rotator-cuff tears have evolved to address various shoulder dysfunctions beyond just external rotation deficits, with specific transfers indicated for different types of tears.

The latissimus dorsi, inferior trapezius, and pectoralis major transfers are recommended after failed primary surgeries, with latissimus dorsi being suitable for partial loss of elevation and inferior trapezius for external rotation deficits; however, in cases of total loss of elevation, these transfers may need to be combined with reverse arthroplasty for effective restoration.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Tendon transfers in rotator-cuff surgery. Kany, J.[2020]

The study reviews various latissimus dorsi tendon transfer techniques for treating shoulder issues, highlighting their applications in conditions like obstetric palsy and irreparable rotator cuff tears.

It emphasizes the importance of tailored surgical planning and approaches for each technique, providing valuable insights for surgeons considering these procedures.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Latissimus dorsi tendon transfers: a historical journey. Turkmen, I., Koraman, E., Poyanlı, O.[2021]

In a study of 18 patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears, latissimus dorsi tendon transfer resulted in shoulder range of motion (ROM) comparable to their healthy shoulders, indicating effective functional restoration after surgery.

The procedure also showed increased activation of the latissimus dorsi muscle during specific movements, suggesting that the muscle's contraction contributes positively to shoulder function, despite not fully normalizing scapulothoracic joint movements.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The latissimus dorsi tendon functions as an external rotator after arthroscopic-assisted transfer for massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. Galasso, O., Mantovani, M., Muraccini, M., et al.[2021]

The article discusses a novel technique for managing a rare complication of latissimus dorsi tendon transfer, specifically a rupture of the transferred tendon, which is particularly relevant for young, active patients with massive rotator cuff tears.

The proposed solution involves an arthroscopic, anatomic bridging reconstruction using an acellular human dermal matrix allograft, offering a potential new approach to address this complication effectively.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Revision of a Failed Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for a Massive Rotator Cuff Tear With Arthroscopic Anatomic Bridging Reconstruction Using an Acellular Human Dermal Matrix Allograft. John, R., Coady, CM., Wong, I.[2020]

Tendon transfer options, such as lower trapezius and latissimus dorsi transfers, can effectively treat irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs) by restoring shoulder function and relieving pain, with recent studies showing promising results for the lower trapezius transfer.

The latissimus dorsi transfer has been found to be a safe and effective option not only for posterior-superior RCTs but also for addressing subscapularis insufficiency, highlighting the importance of selecting the appropriate donor tendon for optimal outcomes.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The Role of Tendon Transfers for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears. Clark, NJ., Elhassan, BT.[2022]

In a study of 23 patients with irreparable massive rotator cuff tears, latissimus dorsi tendon transfer resulted in significant improvements in shoulder function and range of motion at an average follow-up of 4.7 years.

While the procedure showed satisfactory clinical outcomes, complications occurred in 21.7% of cases, including re-tears and infections, highlighting the need for careful monitoring post-surgery.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Mid-term Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer in Massive Rotator Cuff Tears. Suh, D., Ji, JH., Tankshali, K., et al.[2022]

In a study of 42 patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, using a modified technique for latissimus dorsi tendon transfer that included bone harvesting resulted in significantly better clinical outcomes compared to the traditional method, with higher Constant and ASES scores.

The modified technique also led to a lower rate of tendon rupture, with no complete ruptures observed in the modified group, compared to four in the traditional group, indicating improved fixation stability and overall effectiveness of the procedure.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for irreparable rotator cuff tears: a modified technique to improve tendon transfer integrity. Moursy, M., Forstner, R., Koller, H., et al.[2022]

In a study of 42 patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, using a modified technique for latissimus dorsi tendon transfer that included bone harvesting resulted in significantly better clinical outcomes compared to the traditional method, with higher Constant and ASES scores.

The modified technique also led to a lower rate of tendon rupture, with no complete ruptures observed in the modified group, compared to four in the traditional group, indicating improved fixation stability and overall effectiveness of the procedure.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for irreparable rotator cuff tears: a modified technique to improve tendon transfer integrity: surgical technique. Tauber, M., Moursy, M., Forstner, R., et al.[2022]

Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDT) significantly improves shoulder movement in patients with massive, irreparable posterosuperior cuff tears, as shown by 3-D motion analysis conducted on nine patients before and after surgery.

The improvement in shoulder motion after LDT does not appear to be due to increased activity of the latissimus dorsi muscle, suggesting that the mechanism may involve a depression of the humeral head into the glenoid cavity instead.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Three-dimensional analysis of the shoulder motion in patients with massive irreparable cuff tears after latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDT). Ippolito, G., Serrao, M., Napoli, F., et al.[2019]

The study found that transferring the lower trapezius (LT) muscle to the infraspinatus insertion site provides better abduction and external rotation moment arms compared to the latissimus dorsi (LD) transfer, suggesting a biomechanical advantage for LT in improving shoulder function.

However, the LT transfer resulted in significantly larger muscle strains, indicating a risk of overtensioning, which may require the use of a tendon allograft to ensure safety and effectiveness during rehabilitation.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Biomechanics of lower trapezius and latissimus dorsi transfers in rotator cuff-deficient shoulders. Reddy, A., Gulotta, LV., Chen, X., et al.[2019]

The study introduces an innovative arthroscopic-assisted technique for lower trapezius transfer, which is used to reconstruct massive irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tears, enhancing the surgical approach previously described.

This technique is augmented with an Achilles tendon allograft, potentially improving the effectiveness of the reconstruction and offering a less invasive option compared to traditional methods.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Arthroscopic-Assisted Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer for Massive Irreparable Posterior-Superior Rotator Cuff Tears: Surgical Technique. Elhassan, BT., Alentorn-Geli, E., Assenmacher, AT., et al.[2022]

Citations

1. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37993088/

to long-term outcomes of latissimus dorsi tendon transfer ... Our pooled estimated results seem to indicate that latissimus dorsi tendon transfer significantly improves patient-reported outcomes, pain ...

2. sciencedirect.com sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666638324003761

Rotator Cuff Latissimus dorsi transfer or lower trapezius ... The aim of both transfers is to restore shoulder function and to decrease pain. Active forward elevation (FE) and active external rotation (ER) can be ...

3. orthopedicreviews.openmedicalpublishing.org orthopedicreviews.openmedicalpublishing.org/article/138668-evaluating-the-efficacy-of-trapezius-transfer-in-the-management-of-massive-rotator-cuff-tears-a-systematic-review-of-clinical-outcomes

Evaluating the Efficacy of Trapezius Transfer in the ... The results indicate a promising alternative for patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, particularly when compared to other ...

4. josr-online.biomedcentral.com josr-online.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13018-025-05496-7

Efficacy of latissimus dorsi and teres major tendon transfer in ... Although LDTM transfer is an effective and safe treatment option for ASIRCTs and PSIRCTs, LDTM transfer is more effective for ASIRCTs than ...

5. journals.lww.com journals.lww.com/international-journal-of-surgery/fulltext/2025/10000/outcome_comparison_of_arthroscopic_latissimus.56.aspx

Outcome comparison of arthroscopic latissimus dorsi ... Conclusions: LDTT and MA effectively restore shoulder function in IRCTs; however, their mechanisms differ. The LDTT excels in dynamic ...

6. sciencedirect.com sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1058274603002064

Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for massive rotator cuff tears Understanding specific anatomic relationships is one of the factors contributing to the safety of the LDT transfer procedure with respect to nerve injury.

7. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39543911/

Satisfactory Clinical Outcomes After Latissimus Dorsi ... A previous study have evaluated the outcomes of LDTT at a minimum 10-year follow-up and found durable improvements in shoulder function and pain ...

8. openorthopaedicsjournal.com openorthopaedicsjournal.com/VOLUME/11/PAGE/77/

Latissimus Dorsi Transfer in Posterior Irreparable Rotator ... Transfer of the Latissimus dorsi has been used with success to restore shoulder function in deficits of the posterior rotator cuff.