Comparing treatments for massive rotator cuff tears

Effectiveness of Treatments of Massive Tears in the Shoulder Rotator Cuff, Assessed With Relevant Results for the Patient: A Mixed Methodology Study.

Parc de Salut Mar · NCT05780229

This study is trying to find out which treatment works best for people with massive rotator cuff tears by looking at their experiences and comparing different options like surgery and conservative care.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages65 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorParc de Salut Mar (other)
Locations6 sites (Sabadell, Barcelona and 5 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05780229 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to identify important treatment outcomes for individuals with massive rotator cuff tears, focusing on patient experiences to enhance shared decision-making during consultations in Spain. It employs a mixed methodology, starting with qualitative interviews to gather insights on patient perceptions and expectations. Following this, a quantitative phase will compare the effectiveness of conservative treatment, arthroscopic decompression surgery, and reverse prosthesis based on patient-relevant outcomes and quality of life. The study involves participants from multiple hospitals across two autonomous communities in Spain.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 65 to 85 with a complete rupture of the rotator cuff tendons and no prior surgical treatment on the affected shoulder.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological injuries or active infections may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more personalized and effective treatment options for patients with massive rotator cuff tears.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in comparing treatment outcomes for rotator cuff injuries, but this mixed methodology approach is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age between 65 and 85 years.
* No previous surgical treatment in the affected shoulder.
* Complete rupture of the rotator cuff tendons, verified by magnetic resonance imaging;

Exclusion Criteria:

* Neurological injury.
* Active infection.

Where this trial is running

Sabadell, Barcelona and 5 other locations

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: Massive Rotator Cuff Tears, Shoulder Disease, Mixed metholodgy, Comparative Effectiveness Research, Prosthesis, Arthroscopic Surgery, Conservative treatment

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.