Background Treatment modalities for rotator cuff tears are continuously evolving. Augmentation of rotator cuff repair with biocomposite implants with bioinductive properties such as collagen scaffolds, dermal grafts, and synthetic materials are increasingly being used to ensure repair integrity. Ideally, an implant should provide added structural integrity as well as biologic components that augment the final repair tissue quality. Case Report A 69-year-old male underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair augmented with a BioBrace Reinforced BioInductive Implant (CONMED Corporation), a biocomposite implant containing type 1 bovine collagen with poly-L-lactic acid. With physical therapy, the patient9s periscapular and rotator cuff strengthening had progressed by 8 weeks postoperatively, and full return to activities began at 6 months postoperatively. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging at 1 year demonstrated complete healing of the rotator cuff repair with intact footprint on coronal and sagittal images. Conclusion This biocomposite implant provides an encouraging option for use in patients with poor tissue quality or tear patterns that are concerning for possible postoperative retear.
Wilder et al. (Fri,) studied this question.