BLOG

Shoulder injuries, particularly those involving the rotator cuff, are among the most common musculoskeletal issues that impact mobility and quality of life. These injuries are not only common but also profoundly impact an individual’s mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. Traditional treatments often include physical therapy, medications, or surgical interventions. However, advancements in medical technology, like the InSpacer balloon, are revolutionizing the approach to rotator cuff repair and recovery.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their associated tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable its wide range of motion. Injuries to the rotator cuff, including tears or significant damage, can occur due to aging, overuse, or traumatic events. Symptoms often include pain, weakness, and limited shoulder movement, which can greatly hinder daily activities.

Traditional treatment options for rotator cuff injuries range from physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications to surgical interventions for more severe cases. While these approaches have been effective to varying degrees, they are not without limitations. For instance, physical therapy often requires prolonged commitment and may not fully address severe structural damage, while surgery, though effective, can involve extensive recovery periods and potential complications. This gap in treatment efficacy has fueled the search for innovative solutions to optimize outcomes and enhance recovery

The implant has been in clinical use for over 10 years. Many studies show it reduces surgery time, makes procedures simpler, and speeds up recovery, leading to faster healing for patients.

The Role of InSpacer Balloons in Rotator Cuff Surgery

InSpacer balloons have emerged as a transformative tool in the surgical management of rotator cuff injuries. These innovative devices are designed to provide temporary support to the shoulder joint, facilitating healing and improving post-surgical outcomes.

How It Works:

1. Creating Space: During rotator cuff repair surgery, an InSpacer balloon is inserted into the subacromial space—the area between the acromion (a bony projection of the shoulder blade) and the rotator cuff tendons. This space is often compressed due to inflammation or structural changes, causing pain and restricting movement.
2. Reducing Friction: By acting as a cushion, the InSpacer balloon minimizes friction between the acromion and the repaired tendons. This reduces the risk of re-injury during the critical healing phase.
3. Supporting Recovery: The balloon remains in place for several months, allowing the repaired tissue to heal without undue stress. It eventually dissolves or is removed, depending on the specific device and treatment protocol.

Advantages of Using InSpacer Balloons

The incorporation of InSpacer balloons into rotator cuff surgery offers several notable benefits:

1. Pain Reduction: Patients often experience a significant decrease in post-operative pain due to the cushioning effect of the balloon.
2. Enhanced Healing: By maintaining adequate space and reducing mechanical stress, these devices promote a conducive environment for tendon healing.
3. Improved Shoulder Function: Many patients regain their range of motion more quickly, allowing them to resume daily activities and physical therapy with greater ease.
4. Minimally Invasive: The placement of the InSpacer balloon is typically achieved through arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique that reduces recovery time and the risk of complications.
5. Temporary and Safe: Made from biocompatible materials, the balloons are designed to be temporary, posing minimal risk of adverse reactions. The implant is a biodegradable balloon spacer made of poly L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone (PLCL). It is filled with sterile saline to a specific volume after being placed in the subacromial space. One of three sizes is chosen based on measurements taken during the procedure. The implant will dissolve over a period of 12 months.

The Procedure: A Step-by-Step Overview

The use of an InSpacer balloon in rotator cuff surgery involves several critical steps:

1. Preoperative Planning:
   • The surgeon evaluates the patient’s condition using imaging studies such as MRI or ultrasound to determine the extent of the injury and the suitability of the InSpacer balloon.
2. Arthroscopic Surgery:
   • Small incisions are made to access the shoulder joint. The damaged tissue is repaired, and any debris or bone spurs causing impingement are removed.
3. Balloon Placement:
   • The InSpacer balloon is carefully inserted into the subacromial space. Once positioned, it is inflated to the appropriate size using sterile fluid or air.
4. Closure:
   • The incisions are closed, and the patient is moved to recovery.
5. Postoperative Monitoring:
   • The patient’s progress is closely monitored to ensure proper healing. Physical therapy is initiated to restore strength and mobility.

Challenges and Considerations

While the benefits of InSpacer balloons are well-documented, certain challenges remain:

1. Cost:
   • The technology can be expensive, potentially limiting access for some patients.
2. Not Suitable for All Cases:
   • Patients with extensive damage or advanced degenerative changes may require alternative treatments(reverse shoulder replacement).
3. Training and Expertise:
   • Successful outcomes depend on the surgeon’s expertise in arthroscopic techniques and the proper placement of the balloon.

For enquiries and online appointments, send a message to www.BangaloreShoulderInstitute.com/contact

For informative videos related to Shoulder problems and their treatment options, Sports Injuries and other orthopedic conditions, visit the YouTube channel Bangalore Shoulder Institute – https://www.youtube.com/@BangaloreShoulderInstitute