Tendon Transfer — Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer

NYU Langone Health · Dr. Daniel J. Kaplan, MD

Weight-Bearing

N/A

Key Restrictions

ER sling 0-6 wks; no active or active-assisted exercises until cleared by surgeon (includes pulleys, wand, supine assisted); no IR behind back until 3 months; max 5 lbs lifting in Phase 2; strengthening max 3x/week (avoid RC tendinitis)

Timeline & Phases

Phase 1: 0-6 wks (passive ROM, ER sling); Phase 2: 6-12 wks (AAROM then AROM, no resistance, 5 lbs max lifting); Phase 3: 12+ wks (progressive strengthening, isotonic at 4 months)

Notes

Indicated for massive irreparable rotator cuff tear in active patients not meeting rTSA criteria; lower trapezius connected to proximal humerus with tendon allograft

Surgeon / Author

Dr. Daniel J. Kaplan, MD

Published

2025-01