A Breakthrough Treatment for Massive Rotator Cuff Tears

Stryker InSpace^TM Balloon Implant

The Stryker InSpace^TM Balloon Implant is the first minimally invasive option to treat massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCT)—rather than a total shoulder replacement or complex reconstruction—and it’s available from the shoulder specialists at Orlin & Cohen. We’ll review everything you need to know about this breakthrough solution, including what it treats, how it works, and if it’s right for you.

What does it treat?

The InSpace Implant is used to treat MIRCTs. This type of rotator cuff tear is a chronic condition characterized by a retracted tendon with significant muscle weakness and limited mobility.

For many patients, the implant may be a viable alternative to shoulder replacements or complex reconstructions, which typically have longer recovery times.

How does it work?

The Stryker InSpace Balloon Implant is an innovative arthroscopic procedure. It repairs the rotator cuff and improves shoulder function by restoring the subacromial space, which is the space above the shoulder’s ball-and-socket joint where the rotator cuff is located.

During the procedure, an orthopedic surgeon makes a tiny incision in the shoulder and then inserts a dissolvable, biodegradable balloon. The balloon acts as a cushion reducing friction in the shoulder to relieve pain and improve a patient’s range of motion.

While the balloon dissolves over time, it has been clinically proven to show improvements for two years. If desired, patients can elect to have the procedure repeated.

Where is it available?

Orlin & Cohen is one of the only Long Island providers of the InSpace Implant, which was FDA-approved in July 2021 after 10 years of clinical research and 29,000 implants. In fact, Dr. Jonathan Ticker, one of Orlin & Cohen’s fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine specialists, performed the first InSpace Implant procedure on Long Island in December 2021.

Its use demonstrates our commitment to advancing orthopedic clinical research to improve patient outcomes.

Is a Stryker InSpace Balloon Implant right for me?

Candidates for the InSpace Implant are patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCT), age 65 and older, with weakness in shoulder rotation, muscle atrophy, or ruptured rotator cuff tendons.

If this describes you, speak with top-ranked shoulder specialists at Orlin & Cohen. Our comprehensive approach to shoulder care includes convenient access to diagnostic imaging so your specialist can more quickly determine which treatment is best for you. Request an appointment today.