ArticleOrthopedic reviews2025
Evaluating the Efficacy of Trapezius Transfer in the Management of Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: A Systematic Review of Clinical Outcomes.
Article in Orthopedic reviews, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 2 papers.
What it found
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
The trial behind it
Trials whose registry record cites this paper, or whose number appears in the abstract. A trial that started after this paper was published is citing it as background, not reporting it.
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Who cites it
2 citing papers in PubMed.
- Staged reverse shoulder arthroplasty with structural allograft-prosthesis composite and lower trapezius tendon transfer for massive proximal humeral bone loss following gunshot injury: a case report.Journal of surgical case reports · 2026Article
- Maximal scapular protraction increases the safety distance of the spinal accessory nerve during lower trapezius tendon harvest: a cadaveric study.JSES international · 2026Article
Corrections and comments
PubMed lists nothing against this paper. Absence here is not a guarantee, only a check that was made.
Authors and funding
8 authors.
Funding
No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.
Abstract
Background: Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears are a significant challenge for shoulder function, with tendon transfers emerging as potential solutions. Objective: This systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate the current evidence on the outcomes of lower trapezius transfer for the treatment of massive rotator cuff tears. Methods: This systematic review examines the use of trapezius transfer in managing these tears. Following PRISMA guidelines, a search of Medline, Embase, and Cochrane was conducted through March 2024 for studies on trapezius tendon transfer. Results: The review analyzed data from 214 patients (161 males, 53 females) with an average age of 58 years (range: 31-73 years), focusing on surgical technique, complications, follow-up duration, and outcomes. Most procedures utilized an Achilles allograft, with reported complications including retear rates of 7.5% and surgical infections in 2.3% of cases. The average follow-up was 38.4 months, with 80% to 100% of patients returning to previous activity levels. Conclusion: This review highlights the effectiveness of lower trapezius tendon transfer, particularly using an Achilles allograft, in enhancing pain relief, shoulder mobility, and overall function. Despite some complications, the high return-to-activity rate underscores the procedure's utility in restoring normalcy and productivity for patients with massive rotator cuff tears. Future research should aim to standardize operative and postoperative protocols to optimize outcomes and reduce complications.
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