Comparing tendon repair options during reverse shoulder replacement

Subscapularis Repair in Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Multi-Center Randomized Single Blinded Superiority Study

NA · University of Maryland, Baltimore · NCT05344898

This study tests whether repairing a specific shoulder tendon during reverse shoulder replacement can help patients move their arm better and reduce the chance of dislocation.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment118 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 95 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Maryland, Baltimore (other)
Locations1 site (Baltimore, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT05344898 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the outcomes of repairing the subscapularis tendon versus not repairing it during reverse shoulder arthroplasty. The research aims to determine if tendon repair can reduce the risk of dislocation and improve arm movement after surgery. A total of 148 patients will be enrolled, and they will be randomly assigned to either the repair or no repair group. The study will track functionality and complications over a duration of five years to provide insights into the best surgical approach.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 95 who are scheduled for reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Not a fit: Patients with irreparable subscapularis tendons or a history of proximal humerus fractures may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes and reduced complications for patients undergoing reverse shoulder replacement.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing debate regarding tendon repair in shoulder surgeries, this specific approach is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. 18 to 95 years old
2. Undergoing reverse shoulder arthroplasty for any indication including revision surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Irreparable Subscapularis Tendon

   a. Reparability of Subscapularis will be determined based on MRI or CT scan obtained preoperatively and confirmed intraoperatively. Tendons must be intact with less than Grade I or II Fatty Infiltration as determined by the Goutallier classification.
2. Any history of proximal humerus fracture
3. Any revision with proximal humerus bone loss

Where this trial is running

Baltimore, Maryland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Shoulder Injuries, Rotator Cuff Injuries

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.