Polytetrafluoroethylene patches for massive rotator cuff tears: An update of current concepts

IntroductionRotator cuff tears are one of the most important causes of shoulder disability and are highly prevalent in most western populations. Massive rotator cuff tears present inherent challenges for the orthopaedic surgeon. Patch augmentation with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) felt patches has become increasing popular over the last decade. The aim of this review is to summarize the available literature on PTFE patches in massive rotator cuff tears.MethodA search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed. The authors further searched available literature using Google Scholar and the reference lists of selected articles. A total of eleven studies (four animal and seven clinical) were found.Results and discussionAnimal and clinical studies have shown that PTFE patches are biomechanically and biologically sound, and have established optimal patch dimensions. Complications with the use of the patch have been minimal, although the outcome of biologic reaction at the patch-bone interface requires further work.ConclusionLonger-term clinical studies and randomized controlled clinical trials are needed. Further work is needed to better understand the biologics of the patch and its incorporation into the graft-host tissue interface.