Balloon spacers in the management of massive rotator cuff tears: A focus on clinical outcomes

Patients suffering from massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears represent a challenging treatment population. Despite a wide array of management options, no consensus exists regarding the surgical technique that provides optimal pain control and functional outcomes. The subacromial balloon spacer is a novel treatment option allowing for both temporary and definitive treatment for such patients. While larger and long-term clinical studies are limited, outcomes following spacer implantation with or without performance of additional arthroscopic interventions are promising with few reported complications. The purpose of this review is to highlight the function, clinical results, complications, and limitations of subacromial balloon spacer utilization in patients with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears.