Outcome of latissimus dorsi transfer for irreparable rotator cuff tears

The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the mid- and long-term functional and radiological results following latissimus dorsi transfer for symptomatic irreparable tears of the supra- and infraspinatus tendons (postero-superior cuff tears). Twenty-six shoulders with an irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear were assessed preoperatively and after latissimus dorsi transfer, using the Constant score and standard radiographs to determine the degree of osteoarthritis and to measure the acromio-humeral distance. After a minimal follow-up of one year (range: 13 to 124 months) we observed a significant increase in Constant score from 39 to 60 points at the time of the last follow-up (p < 0.00001). Eighty-five percent of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the result and would undergo the same surgery again. An increase in the grade of gleno-humeral osteoarthritis was noted in 38.5% of the operated shoulders, and this was associated with a lower Constant score. We noted a decrease in acromio-humeral distance, indicating further proximalisation of the humeral head, but this was not significant (p = 0.049).