Lipogems® Shows Early Benefits for Rotator Cuff Repair

Randomized Trial Tests Fat-Derived Cells During Surgery

Researchers in Italy conducted a rigorous clinical trial to test whether adding Lipogems® (micro-fragmented adipose tissue) during rotator cuff surgery could improve healing outcomes. They enrolled patients with confirmed degenerative rotator cuff tears who needed arthroscopic repair. Half received standard surgery alone, while the other half received the same surgery plus an injection of their own processed fat tissue. This tissue contains mesenchymal stem cells (regenerative cells that support tissue repair) without requiring laboratory expansion or additives.

44 Patients Followed for Two Full Years

The study tracked 44 patients—22 in each group—for 24 months after surgery. Researchers measured shoulder function and pain at multiple checkpoints: three, six, 12, 18, and 24 months. At 18 months, all patients received MRI scans to check whether their repaired tendons had healed or re-torn. This extended follow-up provides meaningful data about both short-term recovery and longer-term outcomes.

Shoulder Function Scores Higher at Six Months

The primary finding showed a clear advantage for the Lipogems® group at the six-month mark. Patients who received the fat tissue injection scored an average of 82.78 points on the Constant-Murley score (a standard measure of shoulder function). The control group averaged 76.66 points. This six-point difference was statistically significant, meaning it likely represents a real treatment effect rather than chance variation. Higher scores indicate better shoulder strength, range of motion, and daily function.

Treatment Group Recovered Faster Early On

The improved scores at six months suggest that adding Lipogems® may accelerate the healing process during the critical early recovery period. This matters because faster recovery can mean:

• Returning to work and daily activities sooner

• Less frustration during rehabilitation

• Better quality of life in the months following surgery

However, by 12, 18, and 24 months, both groups showed similar outcomes. This suggests the fat tissue injection may primarily benefit early-stage healing rather than changing long-term results.

No Safety Concerns or Added Complications

One of the study's most reassuring findings was the safety profile. The Lipogems® group showed no significant difference in complication rates, adverse events, or tendon re-tear rates compared to standard surgery alone. The re-tear rate—a common concern with rotator cuff repairs—was similar between groups on MRI evaluation. This indicates that adding the fat tissue injection does not introduce new risks to the surgical procedure.

What This Means for Your Treatment Decision

This Level 2 evidence (high-quality randomized trial) supports Lipogems® as a safe option that may help you recover faster in the first six months after rotator cuff repair. The treatment uses your own fat tissue, processed during the same surgical session, eliminating concerns about donor rejection or complex laboratory procedures.

If you prioritize faster early recovery and are comfortable that long-term outcomes appear similar either way, Lipogems® augmentation may be worth discussing with your surgeon. The procedure adds minimal complexity to standard arthroscopic repair while potentially shortening your recovery timeline. As with any treatment decision, consider your individual circumstances, activity goals, and your surgeon's experience with this technique.

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Source: Randelli et al., The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 2022.