Definition: A rotator cuff tear arthropathy is a condition that occurs when there is severe shoulder arthritis in the setting of a large rotator cuff tear.
A rotator cuff tear arthropathy can create a challenging treatment problem. While shoulder replacements are effective treatment for shoulder arthritis, the standard implants rely on the rotator cuff to function properly. When a rotator cuff tear arthropathy exists, a special type of implant is often used for treatment. One type of implant created for rotator cuff tear arthropathy is called a reverse shoulder replacement.
