InSpace Balloon Implant for Massive Rotator Cuff Tears

What is the InSpace Balloon?

Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical technology companies, has developed an advanced treatment option for arthroscopic treatment of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears. The only implant of its kind in orthopedic shoulder surgery, the InSpace Balloon is designed to restore the subacromial space in the shoulder, without the need for sutures or additional fixations devices.

How is the InSpace Balloon used?

Dr. Lamplot performs this arthroscopic procedure using a minimally invasive technique that allows for small incisions and a potentially faster healing time. The procedure involves inserting a small balloon implant into an area of the patient’s shoulder called the subacromial space (located between the upper shoulder bone and the ball-and-socket of the shoulder beneath.) The space is carefully measured for the correct sized balloon, and the correct implant is placed into the space. Once inserted, the balloon is filled with a saline solution, thereby creating a cushion that keeps the shoulder bones gliding painlessly during movement.

YouTube video compliments of Stryker/Orthospace

How is the InSpace balloon implant different from a traditional rotator cuff tear repair?

The standard rotator cuff repair involves surgery to reattach torn tendons to the humerus bone of the shoulder using stitches and anchors. The goal of the traditional repair is for the tendons to reattach to the bone from which they tore. If the rotator cuff is massive, or if there is significant damage to the tissue, the tendons may have a low likelihood of healing.

The balloon implant technique, does not involve surgical repair of the torn tendons. Instead, it adds a cushioning spacer to prevent painful bone-on-bone friction that occurs after a large rotator cuff tear. Once the implant is in place, the patient undergoes physical therapy to train other muscles to compensate or make up for the injured ones.  The goal of the surgery is to improve shoulder pain and function.

 Who should consider the InSpace balloon implant?

For patients in Arlington Heights, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Barrington, and the surrounding Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, IL who qualify for this specialized treatment, the balloon implant may provide a minimally invasive option for pain relief. Dr. Lamplot has had excellent outcomes for patients with large, irreparable rotator cuff tears who have experienced less downtime and an earlier return to normal activities after physical therapy than other treatments such as shoulder replacement.

The manufacturer, Stryker, recommends the following types of eligibility criteria for receiving the InSpace Balloon implant:

• Full thickness massive rotator cuff tear (MRCT)​
• Measuring ≥ 5 cm in diameter
• Involving ≥ 2 tendons
• 4 months failed conservative Rx​
• Functional deltoid muscle with preserved passive ROM
• Good health
• No underlying conditions that would affect healing or surgical placement

Will my insurance pay for the InSpace balloon implant?

As with any surgical procedure, it is important to contact your insurance company regarding your specific reimbursement amounts and availability. Most major insurance plans allow reimbursement for the InSpace balloon implant. Contact our office for more information and to get help to see if you qualify for this specialized treatment for massive rotator cuff tears.

To read more, you may download the patient brochure: Stryker InSpace Balloon Implant 

Rotator Cuff Surgeon