Structure and function of the rabbit's supraspinatus muscle after resection of its tendon

The tendinous part of the supraspinatus muscle was removed in 12 rabbits in order to simulate a major rotator cuff tear. Changes in the contractile response and the development of atrophy of the supraspinatus muscle were significant. These changes may indicate that the modest results obtained in reconstruction of major rotator cuff tears may be due to muscular insufficiency.