Editorial Commentary: Rotator Cuff Repairs Fail at an Alarmingly High Rate During Long-Term Follow-Up: Graft Augmentation and Biologics May Improve Future Outcomes

Rotator cuff repairs (RCR) frequently fail to heal, particularly those with advanced fatty infiltration, supraspinatus and infraspinatus atrophy, narrowed acromiohumeral distance, and large-to-massive tear size. Unfortunately, the longer the follow up, the more sobering the statistics, with some reported retear rates ranging up to 94%. Importantly, recent long-term radiographic assessments after primary RCR reveal direct correlations between failure and patient-reported outcomes, functional deterioration, and ultimately, progression of glenohumeral arthritis and/or frank cuff tear arthropathy. As shoulder surgeons, we must continue to seek out novel approaches to improve tendon to bone healing and recapitulate the native rotator cuff enthesis. In doing so, we hope to engender more sustained subjective and objective results for our patients over time. Investigations are ongoing into several biomechanical and biological or structural adjuncts, from platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow aspirate concentrate to autograft or allograft structural augments. We must continue to push the envelope and refuse to settle for the current reality and alarmingly high failure rates following RCR.