✦ Joint-Saving Reconstruction

Superior Capsular Reconstruction

Q: What does an irreparable cuff tear mean?

The torn tendon edge cannot be mobilised and reattached to bone — usually due to long-standing chronic tear and severe muscle atrophy.

Q: Which graft is best — fascia or dermal?

Fascia lata autograft is robust and biological. Dermal allograft is convenient and avoids a thigh incision. Both have strong supporting evidence.

Q: Is reverse replacement possible later?

Yes — should SCR fail, conversion to reverse shoulder replacement remains entirely feasible. SCR doesn't burn bridges to subsequent treatment.

Q: What does post-op care involve?

Sling for 6 weeks, then graded passive and active motion under physiotherapy. Strengthening starts at 3 months, sport return by 4–6 months.

A graft is anchored from the upper socket to the humeral head to recreate the missing superior capsule — a joint-preserving alternative for irreparable cuff tears in younger active patients.

90–120 min PROCEDURE

1–2 Days HOSPITAL STAY

>85% SUCCESS RATE

4–6 Months FULL RECOVERY

What is Superior Capsular Reconstruction?

Superior Capsular Reconstruction is an advanced arthroscopic shoulder procedure designed for younger, active patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears who do not yet have arthritis severe enough for reverse shoulder replacement. A specially shaped graft — fascia lata autograft or dermal allograft — is anchored from the upper rim of the glenoid to the greater tuberosity of the humerus, recreating the absent superior capsule and preventing upward migration of the humeral head. Dr. Hithesh performs SCR in Hyderabad as a thoughtful joint-preservation alternative, restoring stability, motion and quality of life without resorting to replacement.

Reserved for younger patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, no significant arthritis, intact deltoid function and functional expectations exceeding what reverse shoulder replacement could reliably deliver long-term.

How the Procedure Works

Diagnostic Arthroscopy

Standard portals confirm the cuff tear is irreparable and the joint is suitable for biological reconstruction with a graft.

Graft Preparation

A fascia lata autograft from the patient's thigh or a dermal allograft is shaped, sized and pre-loaded with sutures.

Glenoid Anchor Placement

Suture anchors are positioned along the superior glenoid rim to secure the medial side of the graft firmly.

Graft Implantation

The prepared graft is shuttled into the joint and anchored to both the glenoid and the humeral footprint securely.

Closure & Rehabilitation

Tiny portals are closed; sling support, gentle passive motion and graded strengthening guide biological graft integration over months.

Outcomes

90–120 minDURATION

1–2 DaysHOSPITAL STAY

>85%SUCCESS RATE

4–6 MonthsFULL RECOVERY

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Joint-preserving alternative when rotator cuff repair is technically not possible
→Substantial pain relief from massive irreparable cuff tears reliably
→Restores shoulder stability and prevents proximal humeral head migration
→Improves overhead motion and active arm elevation considerably overall
→Suited to younger active patients wanting to delay replacement surgery
→Tiny keyhole portals leave minimal cosmetic scarring after wound healing

Superior capsular reconstruction has changed the conversation for younger patients with massive cuff tears. We now have a real biological option that preserves their own joint instead of jumping straight to replacement surgery.

— — Dr. Bathini Hithesh, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Trauma & Joint Replacement Specialist, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an irreparable cuff tear mean?+

Which graft is best — fascia or dermal?+

Is reverse replacement possible later?+

What does post-op care involve?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Bathini Hithesh and get a personalised treatment plan.

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