Biologic Augmentation in RC Repair (Patches and Grafts): Part I

Abstract

Poor healing and high failure rates after rotator cuff repair pose a significant challenge to the orthopedic surgeon. Advances in tissue engineering including the utilization of stem cells and growth factors, as well as various augmentation grafts, have been developed in the hope of improving tissue healing in rotator cuff repair. This chapter aims to discuss the clinical diagnosis, indications, and outcomes of biologic augmentation, namely, the bovine bioinductive patch augment, as well as other alternatives including human-derived allografts, xenografts, and synthetic grafts to optimize healing and provide ideal mechanical stability and growth environment to aid in the repair of rotator cuff tears.