The inspiring story of a North Carolina woman returning to competitive kayaking after a reverse shoulder replacement highlights the depth of expertise within Duke’s shoulder surgery program—especially the work of Dr. Tally E. Lassiter, Jr., MD, MHA, assistant professor of Orthopedic Surgery. A board‑certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in complex shoulder reconstruction and sports medicine, Lassiter regularly treats conditions requiring reverse shoulder arthroplasty, total shoulder replacement, superior capsular reconstruction, and management of irreparable rotator cuff tears.
Lassiter’s research continues to advance shoulder surgery on multiple fronts. His work includes leadership in outpatient reverse shoulder arthroplasty, an area aimed at improving recovery times and reducing cost and complication risk. He is also deeply engaged in studies on superior capsular reconstruction and irreparable rotator cuff injuries, contributing to innovations that help patients regain strength, mobility, and long‑term function. Additionally, Lassiter participates in multi‑center IDE studies evaluating stemless reverse shoulder arthroplasty, a next‑generation implant design that may expand surgical options for patients with complex anatomy. Through collaborations with faculty, residents, and medical students, he continues to push forward research that directly informs and elevates patient care.
“Our goal is always to pair the best evidence with the best surgical technique so patients can return not just to daily life, but to the activities that bring them joy,” said Lassiter. “Seeing patients reclaim high‑level function—whether that’s kayaking, competing, or simply moving without pain—reminds us why continued research and innovation matter.”
Lassiter’s commitment to evidence‑driven surgical care and clinical discovery exemplifies Duke Orthopaedics’ mission to restore function, improve quality of life, and help patients return to the activities that define them.
Read more – Cara Gillotti, Duke Health.