Autologous Tendon “Bamboo Raft” Graft for Reconstruction of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

Abstract

Superior capsular reconstruction has shown long-term clinical effectiveness in treating massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, playing a key role in reducing humeral head translation and restoring the force-couple balance. Various graft techniques involving different types of grafts, such as autologous fascia lata, allogeneic dermal patches, and autologous long head of the biceps tendon, have been described. However, these approaches were often limited by factors such as extensive surgical trauma, high donor-site morbidity, and insufficient mechanical strength of the grafts. We describe autologous tendons, such as the hamstring tendon, fashioned into a “bamboo raft” configuration to create a graft for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. This technique offers several advantages, including minimal surgical trauma, low donor-site complication rates, and superior mechanical strength of the graft.