Balloon Spacers for Treatment of Irreparable Rotator Cuffs of the Shoulder

Subacromial balloon spacer implantation represents a minimally invasive treatment modality for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. The biodegradable spacer is introduced arthroscopically into the subacromial region where it functions to depress the humeral head, successfully reestablishing normal shoulder mechanics by blocking upward displacement of the humeral head toward the acromion. This technique addresses pain and functional limitations by creating a temporary articulating interface between the humeral head and acromion by reducing subacromial impingement. The biodegradable spacer gradually deflates over several months, potentially allowing time for adaptation of surrounding tissues and pain reduction without the complexity of tendon transfers or reverse shoulder arthroplasty.