Optimizing Recovery Following Mihata Superior Capsular Reconstruction Surgery with Tensor Fascia Lata Auto Graft: A Comprehensive Rehabilitation Protocol

Objective: Superior Capsular Reconstruction (SCR) using a Tensor Fascia Lata (TFL) autograft is an evolving technique for treating irreparable rotator cuff tears. The Mihata technique, initially developed in Japan, has shown promising long-term results. However, a standardized post-operative rehabilitation protocol for this procedure in the USA is lacking. Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of a comprehensive rehabilitation protocol following SCR with TFL autograft in a cohort of nine patients. Participants and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at Concentra Urgent Care, San Francisco. Nine patients, aged 55 - 65 years, underwent SCR with TFL autograft performed by a specialized orthopedic surgeon. Post-operative rehabilitation was managed using a structured protocol, divided into three phases focusing on passive exercises, progressive range of motion, and strengthening. Outcomes were measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, forward flexion range of motion (FF-ROM), and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores over a six-month period. Results: Significant improvements were observed in pain reduction (mean VAS decrease of ？3.67 points, p = 0.01), ROM (mean FF increase of 41.11 degrees, p = 0.014), and SANE scores (mean improvement of 42.11%, p = 0.009), indicating the efficacy of the rehabilitation protocol. Conclusion: The comprehensive rehabilitation protocol following SCR with TFL autograft significantly improved pain, range of motion, and shoulder function in patients, suggesting its potential utility in clinical practice.