Irreparable Isolated Infraspinatus Musculotendinous Lesion Treated With Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer: Case Report.

Abstract

Introduction: Irreparable isolated musculotendinous lesions of the infraspinatus are infrequently reported, yet they significantly impair shoulder function. These lesions are characterized by rapid architectural changes in the infraspinatus, with advanced atrophy and high fatty infiltration, rendering treatment particularly challenging. With its biomechanical and anatomical advantages over conventional latissimus dorsi transfer in external rotation, lower trapezius tendon transfer has demonstrated promising clinical outcomes in cases of posterior-superior irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Case report: A case report of two patients (A 57-year-old female and a 66-year- old male) with irreparable isolated musculotendinous lesion in the infraspinatus who underwent lower trapezius tendon transfer.

Conclusion: Lower trapezius transfer effectively alleviated pain and restored active external rotation in both patients, in contrast to attempts of direct repair or augmentation with allografts previously described in the literature.

Level of evidence: Case report.