Indian surgeons adopt Japanese SCR technique for shoulder tears

Doctors in India are adopting a new technique called Superior Capsule Reconstruction (SCR) to treat severe shoulder injuries that cannot be fixed through traditional methods. This is especially helpful for patients with large, irreparable rotator cuff tears. Dr. Chandrashekhar Gillurkar, a physician from Nagpur, faced ongoing shoulder pain that made daily life hard. After many consultations and therapies, he learned he had massive rotator cuff tears. Standard treatments were not suitable for him. Fortunately, he discovered the SCR procedure from Japan. In February 2024, Dr. Gillurkar underwent SCR on his right shoulder and a conventional repair on his left. His recovery from the SCR was much better than expected. "I got my strength back, and the pain is now completely gone," he stated. He returned to work just four days after surgery and was fully fit in four months. SCR is gaining popularity among specialists in India. Dr. Ashish Babhulkar, a shoulder surgeon, explains that SCR uses a tissue graft from the patient's thigh to create a new capsule for the shoulder joint. This method avoids large scars and allows faster recovery. Since 2016, Dr. Babhulkar has performed 25 SCR procedures with positive results. His patients report significant pain relief and improved shoulder function. Many have returned to their daily activities, including some who are doctors themselves. While SCR shows promise, experts warn that careful patient selection is important for success. The long-term results still need more research. Dr. Deepthi Nandan Reddy, president of the Shoulder Elbow Society of India, emphasizes the need for ongoing study of this technique. At Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune, a recent study evaluated 12 patients after SCR surgery. Results showed a significant improvement in shoulder function and pain relief within six months.