Latissimus dorsi transfer for massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: what affects the postoperative outcome?

Background: The management of irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (IPSRCTs) in young active individuals is still a challenge. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of sex, surgical technique, previous surgical procedures, tear genesis, and presence of a preoperative external rotation lag sign on the functional outcome after latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) for IPSRCTs.

Methods: Retrospectively, all patients with IPSRCTs treated with LDT during a 10-year period were followed up.