Subacromial Balloon Spacer in Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears – What Does the Evidence Say?

Abstract

The rupture of the rotator cuff is a common condition in Orthopedics, with massive and irreparable tears posing a challenge for Orthopedic surgeons. There are multiple techniques described for its treatment, with one of the most recent being the implantation of a subacromial balloon. This technically simple technique has shown good biomechanical results in the literature but controversial clinical outcomes. Most of the existing literature is of low scientific evidence. Studies with higher evidence are starting to emerge, but there is still no clear definition of the role of subacromial balloons.