The interval slide in continuity: a method of mobilizing the anterosuperior rotator cuff without disrupting the tear margins.

Abstract

Massive, contracted, immobile rotator cuff tears involving the subscapularis, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus tendons present difficult surgical challenges to the arthroscopic surgeon. We describe the interval slide in continuity, a release and resection of a portion of the coracohumeral ligament and rotator interval. This technique improves the mobility of the subscapularis and supraspinatus tendons but also maintains an important lateral bridge of tissue spanning the interval between the subscapularis anteriorly and the supraspinatus tendon superiorly. After repair of the subscapularis tendon, this lateral rotator interval tissue can greatly facilitate repair of the posterosuperior rotator cuff.