title: Fluoroscopy-guided implantation of subacromial "biodegradable spacer" using local anesthesia in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tear.
abstract: Treatment of massive rotator cuff tears can be challenging, especially when tears are considered irreparable or, when repaired, at significant risk of retear. A surgical technique is described using a biodegradable subacromial balloon-shaped spacer (InSpace; Ortho-Space, Caesarea, Israel) that, when implanted between the humeral head and acromion, permits smooth, frictionless gliding, supporting shoulder biomechanics. The specific insertion technique described herein is a simple procedure that can be performed in a day-care or outpatient setting with patients under local anesthesia, thus providing a treatment option for patients with multiple comorbidities complicating or contraindicating surgery, such as reverse arthroplasty under general anesthesia.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Latisana Civil Hospital, Latisana, Italy.
authors.forename: Enrico
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Gervasi
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Latisana Civil Hospital, Latisana, Italy.
authors.forename: Enrico
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Cautero
authors.affiliation: Advanced Orthopedic Clinic, Assuta Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.
authors.forename: Assaf
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Dekel