Augmentation of Rotator Cuff Repair: A Comprehensive Review of Techniques, Indications, and Clinical Outcomes.

Wideman, Matthew; Brolin, Tyler J · Orthop Clin North Am · 2025

review · Level V

Where this comes from

Abstract

Rotator cuff repair is a prevalent orthopedic procedure; however, it is associated with high retear rates in large, retracted, chronic, or revision cases. Augmentation techniques have been developed to enhance tendon healing and improve clinical outcomes. A comprehensive literature review was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases for studies related to augmentation in rotator cuff repair. Inclusion criteria were clinical studies, meta-analyses, and biomechanical investigations focusing on graft augmentation, biologics, and synthetic materials in tendon repair. Augmentation techniques have the ability to enhance tendon healing and reduce retear rates when indicated. Biological and synthetic materials offer advantages and limitations.

Medical subject headings

Anatomy