Reconstruction of chronic massive rotator cuff tears with synthetic materials.

Synthetic materials for repairing experimental massive rotator cuff tears were investigated in 60 rats. The same materials were investigated for massive rotator cuff ruptures in 25 patients. The materials were well tolerated when used for repair of torn segments of the musculotendinous cuff. Of 25 patients with massive rotator cuff tears, 23 had satisfactory functional results. The muscle strength tests on tendons repaired with Teflon felt (which was thicker than the other materials) were superior to results of repairs with other materials; 3-5 mm proved to be the optimum thickness of Teflon felt used for repair of the musculotendinous cuff.