Short-Term Functional Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair A Cohort Study

Objectives Rotator cuff tears are a leading cause of shoulder pain and functional impairment. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is widely accepted as the gold-standard treatment because of its favorable outcomes and reduced postoperative morbidity. However, short-term functional outcomes and associated factors in the Saudi population remain insufficiently explored. The aim of this study was to evaluate short-term functional outcomes following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and to identify factors associated with postoperative functional status among patients in the Al-Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods A cohort study was conducted over one year at Qassim University Medical City and Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital. Forty-two patients aged ≤70 years who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and completed postoperative follow-up at 6 and/or 12 months were included. Functional outcomes were assessed using a validated Arabic version of the ASES questionnaire through structured telephone interviews. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results The mean ASES score was 20.23 ± 8.28. Significantly lower ASES scores were observed among female and obese patients ( p < 0.05). Patients who experienced night pain or required pain relievers also demonstrated significantly poorer functional outcomes ( p < 0.05). A significant negative correlation was found between ASES scores and body mass index (r = −0.35, p = 0.021), as well as pain intensity (r = −0.51, p = 0.001). A significant association was observed between ASES scores and tear size, occupational status, comorbidities, or lifestyle behaviors. Conclusion Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair results in satisfactory short-term functional outcomes. Female gender, obesity, night pain, and higher pain intensity are associated with poorer postoperative shoulder function. Addressing modifiable factors such as body weight and pain control may enhance postoperative recovery and functional outcomes.