Factors associated with subjective shoulder function preoperatively and postoperatively after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

BackgroundUnderstanding factors associated with improvements in subjective shoulder function after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) helps clinicians identify targets for postoperative rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with subjective shoulder function after ARCR.MethodsPatients who underwent ARCR for rotator cuff tear with at least 12 months of follow-up were included. Subjective shoulder function was assessed preoperatively and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, using the Shoulder36 (Sh36) five domain scores (Pain, range of motion (ROM), Strength, activities of daily living (ADL), general health (Health)). Stepwise multivariable regression analysis was performed to extract the relevant factors for each Sh36 domain score using active shoulder ROM, isometric shoulder and elbow strength, pain score, demographic data, intraoperative findings, medical complications and cuff integrity.ResultsA total of 104 patients met the inclusion criteria for this study. Multivariable regression analysis identified active abduction ROM as the factor associated with five Sh36 domain scores at preoperatively. At 6 months postoperatively, isometric external rotation strength at the body side or 90° abduction position, but not the ROM factor, was identified as a significant associated factor with five Sh36 domain scores. At 12 months postoperatively, pain score was the most associated factor with Pain, ROM, Strength, ADL domain scores of Sh36.ConclusionFactors associated with subjective shoulder function after ARCR differed between the preoperative and postoperative periods. Postoperative treatment, including rehabilitation, should be modified according to the postoperative period after ARCR. Understanding factors associated with improvements in subjective shoulder function after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) helps clinicians identify targets for postoperative rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with subjective shoulder function after ARCR. Patients who underwent ARCR for rotator cuff tear with at least 12 months of follow-up were included. Subjective shoulder function was assessed preoperatively and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, using the Shoulder36 (Sh36) five domain scores (Pain, range of motion (ROM), Strength, activities of daily living (ADL), general health (Health)). Stepwise multivariable regression analysis was performed to extract the relevant factors for each Sh36 domain score using active shoulder ROM, isometric shoulder and elbow strength, pain score, demographic data, intraoperative findings, medical complications and cuff integrity. A total of 104 patients met the inclusion criteria for this study. Multivariable regression analysis identified active abduction ROM as the factor associated with five Sh36 domain scores at preoperatively. At 6 months postoperatively, isometric external rotation strength at the body side or 90° abduction position, but not the ROM factor, was identified as a significant associated factor with five Sh36 domain scores. At 12 months postoperatively, pain score was the most associated factor with Pain, ROM, Strength, ADL domain scores of Sh36. Factors associated with subjective shoulder function after ARCR differed between the preoperative and postoperative periods. Postoperative treatment, including rehabilitation, should be modified according to the postoperative period after ARCR.