Table 1.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Latissimus Tendon Repair Through a Single-Incision Approach With Suture Button Fixation in the Lateral Decubitus Position

Advantages

•The single posterior axillary incision approach uses the same incision for tendon retrieval and footprint exposure. This approach is extensile and can be extended to retrieve a retracted latissimus tendon. •Although there have been no comparative studies of fixation options for latissimus tendon repairs, biomechanical studies of distal biceps repair have shown superior strength with suture button fixation as opposed to suture anchors or bone tunnel fixation.12

Disadvantages

•The beach chair position may be more familiar to the surgeon, as the orientation of the anatomy is altered in the lateral decubitus position. •Surrounding neurovascular structures particularly the radial, axillary, and posterior brachial cutaneous nerves are in close proximity to the humeral footprint and retracted latissimus tendon.