Abstract
Lesions to the shoulder rotator cuff may have several configurations, and are divided
and classified according to the size of the lesion, the tendon involved, its combinations
and whether there is possibility of repair. Irreparable subscapular lesions, as well
as irreparable anterosuperior lesions, may generate shoulder dysfunction due to loss
of humeral head depressants, causing pain and functional limitation. Myotendinous
transfers are among the therapeutic alternatives, and the most studied and widespread
in recent decades is the transfer of the pectoralis major to the minor tuberosity.
However, some anatomical studies suggest that the latissimus dorsi is a more appropriate
alternative for the treatment of these lesions because it presents force vectors more
similar to those of the subscapularis, besides presenting promising results in the
clinical evaluations with short follow-up. The present work aims to describe the surgical
technique developed for transfer of the latissimus dorsi in cases of irreparable subscapular
and anterossuperior lesions to the rotator cuff.
Keywords
shoulder/surgery - rotator cuff - tendon transfer - tendon injuries
