Shepherd HM, et al. - All subjects who previously had a rotator cuff repair with a synthetic patch were followed-up at a minimum of 8.5 years postoperatively by the researchers in order to ascertain the long-term outcome as a result of the use of synthetic patches as tendon substitutes to bridge massive irreparable rotator cuff defects. Shoulder pain, function, range of motion, strength, and imaging were evaluated. An interpositional repair with a synthetic patch was found in 6 subjects, out of which 1 patient expired. In the rest of the five subjects, the mean tear size at repair was 27 cm². All the patches stayed in situ and no case needed further surgery, at 9.7 years postoperatively. In four out of five cases, the repair was sound. In contrast to the preoperative conditions, patients had improved external rotation and abduction. Hence, the long-term outcomes of subjects who had undergone synthetic patch rotator cuff repair for an irreparable rotator cuff tear was demonstrated in this study. Cases notified less severe and more occasional pain, as well as greater overall shoulder function at 9.7 years postoperatively, in comparison with prior to surgery. Patients also reported with progressed passive external rotation and abduction. Every patch remained in situ and there no further operations on these shoulders were conducted.