Subacromial Balloon Spacers for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears.

Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears are difficult to treat. Several different treatment options have been explored in the orthopedic realm. A 69-year-old male with a massive irreparable rotator cuff tear was originally treated with a subacromial balloon spacer around five years prior to presentation. The patient started having increasing shoulder discomfort. Treatment options were discussed following review of MRI results and the patient decided to move forward with a second balloon spacer. The patient underwent his revision procedure and noted significant improvement in his pain and function on follow-up. Revision subacromial balloon spacers constitute an effective surgical treatment option that may slow the progression of rotator cuff arthropathy and relieve pain and dysfunction in the setting of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.