Muscle tendon transfer on the shoulder

If tears in the tendons of the rotator cuff cannot be repaired by conservative therapy or tendon sutures in such a way that pain-free and comprehensive shoulder function is possible, surgical muscle-tendon transfer can be considered. In this surgery, the tendon or tendon parts of another muscle (parts of the pectoralis major muscle, the latissimus dorsi back muscle or the lower trapezius muscle between the scapula and spine) are attached to the site of the torn tendon to take over the function of the torn tendon.

This muscle transfer surgery is performed individually depending on the severity of the tear, the condition of the shoulder joint and the patient's needs. In addition to the aim of reducing pain and restoring shoulder function, muscle-tendon transfer can delay shoulder arthroplasty for as long as possible in younger patients.