Editorial Commentary: The Subscapularis Is King, Ignore It at Your Peril.

Abstract

As a variety of new techniques evolve for the young patient with an irreparable rotator cuff tear involving the supraspinatus and infraspinatus, we must not forget the lessons from Christian Gerber who pioneered the latissimus dorsi transfer as an effective treatment for adult irreparable rotator cuff tears. An intact subscapularis is vital to achieving a good result no matter if one considers a lat transfer, a lower trapezius transfer, a partial posterior rotator cuff tear, or a superior capsular release. Careful evaluation of this tendon and its function remains an important preoperative consideration.