Table 1.

Pearls and Pitfalls of Using Cannulated Dermal Allograft to Augment Rotator Cuff Repair

Pearls

Implant can be placed on either/both sutures or suture tapes

If difficult to slide the implant into position, a moist sponge can be used to ease the process

Use preoperative MRI to plan repair construct and allow for augmentation at desired areas

Pitfalls

Ensure placement of implant before placing anchor

The implant can move when reducing the tear by tightening the sutures; ensure appropriate placement before final reduction

The dermal allograft implant acts simply as a scaffold for healing and therefore use in patients with significant fatty atrophy can be associated with failure