Comparing surgical treatments for irreparable rotator cuff tears
Surgical Treatment of Massive and Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears
This study is testing different surgical options for people with severe rotator cuff tears to see which one helps them recover better and have fewer complications.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Panam Clinic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Winnipeg, Manitoba) |
| Trial ID | NCT03878862 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to evaluate early postoperative recovery outcomes and complications associated with various surgical techniques for massive or irreparable rotator cuff tears. Surgeons will select from options such as arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction, latissimus dorsi transfer, or lower trapezius transfer, with a control group receiving biceps tendon procedures. Patients will undergo pre-operative assessments and follow-ups at multiple intervals to monitor recovery, shoulder motion, and any adverse events. The study will also analyze factors influencing surgical outcomes for these complex injuries.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with massive or irreparable rotator cuff tears, specifically those with grade 3 or higher fatty infiltration into the infraspinatus tendon.
Not a fit: Patients who are under 18 years old, non-English speakers, or part of protected populations such as prisoners or military personnel may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical strategies and recovery outcomes for patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on surgical techniques for rotator cuff repairs, this specific comparison of irreparable tears using multiple advanced techniques is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * massive (2+ tendons) or irreparable (see below) rotator cuff tears in the primary or revision setting. * Definition of "irreparable": grade 3 or higher fatty infiltration into the infraspinatus Exclusion criteria: * Protected populations: prisoners, military, non-English speakers, age \<18 years
Where this trial is running
Winnipeg, Manitoba
- Pan Am Clinic — Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Sheila McRae, PhD
- Email: smcrae@panamclinic.com
- Phone: 204-925-7469
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.