Sports Center: Management of Lower Trapezius Transfer with Peter Chalmers, MD & Bassem Elhassan, MD

Upon completion of this video, you will be able to explain the biomechanical consequences of irreparable posterior superior rotator cuff tears, including disruption of the force couple and loss of humeral head compression; compare muscle transfer options — including latissimus dorsi, teres major, and lower trapezius — and articulate why the lower trapezius offers superior line of pull, synergistic firing, and scapular preservation; and describe the origin of the lower trapezius transfer, its evolution from brachial plexus reconstruction, and the anatomical and EMG evidence supporting its use for massive rotator cuff reconstruction. This content is intended for Health Care Professionals in the United States.