Arthroscopic Matrix Augmentation of Partial-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tear Repairs Using a Full-Thickness Human Perinatal Tissue Allograft.
Stephan G Pill, Jeremy J Mercuri
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
Two patients with persistently symptomatic partial-thickness rotator cuff tears underwent arthroscopic perinatal tissue membrane allograft matrix augmentation using an onlay technique after conservative care failed. The graft could be manipulated and sutured arthroscopically. Both patients had reduced pain at 3 months and improved functional scores at final follow-up (13–15 months); strength and range of motion were normal at that assessment. Neither patient had a reported complication.
What made this case unusual
The report describes arthroscopic onlay augmentation with a full-thickness human perinatal tissue membrane allograft for partial-thickness tears, despite concerns that the material’s fragility could make arthroscopic handling difficult.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
For symptomatic partial-thickness rotator cuff tears that persist despite conservative care, this report demonstrates the technical feasibility of arthroscopic perinatal tissue membrane allograft onlay augmentation in two patients.