Home-Based or Supervised Physical Therapy Show Similar Functional Outcomes and Healing After Massive Rotator Cuff Repair.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare postoperative clinical outcomes at the 3-month, 6-month, 12-month, and latest follow-up in patients undergoing supervised physical therapy (PT) or a home-based exercise program after arthroscopic repair (ARCR) of massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs). METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted on a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent either supervised PT or home-based therapy after ARCR of MRCTs between January 2015 and December 2018 at a single center with a minimum 24-month follow-up. At their 2-week postoperative routine follow-up, patients are allowed to choose between home-based and supervised PT. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and range of motion (ROM) were collected and compared between cohorts preoperatively and at the 3-month, 6-month, 12-month, and latest follow-up. The percentage of patients reaching or exceeding the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient accepted symptomatic state (PASS) for visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon score (ASES), and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) were recorded for both cohorts at each time point. Complications, healing, satisfaction, and return to work were reported. Healing was evaluated via ultrasound at the latest follow-up. RESULTS: Ninety-nine patients met the study criteria: 61 in the supervised PT cohort, and 38 in the home-based cohort. The supervised PT and home-based cohorts returned to clinic for their most recent follow-up at 53±20 and 55±16 months (p=0.496) after surgery, respectively. There was no difference when comparing tendon involvement (SS, p=0.574; IS, p=0.288; SSc p=0.592), tear retraction (p=0.603), or high-grade fatty infiltration (SS, p=0.684; IS, p-0.397; SSc p=0.473) based on preoperative MRI assessment and surgery-related factors, including anterior (p=0.473) or posterior (p=0.386) slides, fixation constructs (p=0.829), or complete repair (p=0.912). Both cohorts showed similar PROs and ROM at baseline. Postoperative PROs and ROM were similar among groups at the 3-month, 6-month, 12-month, and latest follow-up. However, ASES (71.4 vs 61.2; p = 0.013) and FF (135° vs 118°; p = 0.023) were significantly higher at 3-month follow-up in the home-based cohort. Both groups comparably achieved MCID and PASS for PROs at the 3-month, 6-month, and12-month follow-up. At the latest follow-up, the supervised PT and home-based cohort achieved MCID and PASS for VAS (75% vs 81%, p=0.573; 70% vs 72%, p=0.911), ASES (76% vs 74%, p=0.777; 72% vs 72%, p=0.873), and SSV (82% vs 84%, p=0.734; 72% vs 66%, p=0.489), respectively. Satisfaction, healing, complication, and return to work rates were similar. CONCLUSION: Patients undergoing rehabilitation using a home-based protocol showed largely similar functional scores and healing to those with supervised PT after ARCR of MRCTs at the latest follow-up. Although patients with home-based therapy achieved higher FF and ASES at the 3-month follow-up, these became comparable starting at the 6-month postoperative mark. MCID and PASS were achieved similarly for PROs at each time point.

Identification of ChatGPT-Generated Abstracts Within Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Poses a Challenge for Reviewers.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the extent to which experienced reviewers can accurately discern between AI-generated and original research abstracts published in the field of shoulder and elbow surgery and compare this to the performance of an AI-detection tool. METHODS: Twenty-five shoulder and elbow-related articles published in high-impact journals in 2023 were randomly selected. ChatGPT was prompted with only the abstract title to create an AI-generated version of each abstract. The resulting 50 abstracts were randomly distributed to and evaluated by 8 blinded peer reviewers with at least 5 years of experience. Reviewers were tasked with distinguishing between original and AI-generated text. A Likert scale assessed reviewer confidence for each interpretation and the primary reason guiding assessment of generated text was collected. AI output detector (0-100%) and plagiarism (0-100%) scores were evaluated using GPTZero. RESULTS: Reviewers correctly identified 62% of AI-generated abstracts and misclassified 38% of original abstracts as being AI-generated. GPTZero reported a significantly higher probability of AI output among generated abstracts (median 56%, IQR 51-77%) compared to original abstracts (median 10%, IQR 4-37%; p < 0.01). Generated abstracts scored significantly lower on the plagiarism detector (median 7%, IQR 5-14%) relative to original abstracts (median 82%, IQR 72-92%; p < 0.01). Correct identification of AI-generated abstracts was predominately attributed to the presence of unrealistic data/values. The primary reason for misidentifying original abstracts as AI was attributed to writing style. CONCLUSIONS: Experienced reviewers faced difficulties in distinguishing between human and AI-generated research content within shoulder and elbow surgery. The presence of unrealistic data facilitated correct identification of AI abstracts, whereas misidentification of original abstracts was often ascribed to writing style.

Glenoid lateralization in reverse shoulder arthroplasty: metal vs. bone offset in different implant designs.

Background: Higher bone or metal glenoid offset in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) reduces scapular notching, improves range of motion (ROM), and reduces postoperative instability. This retrospective multicenter study compared two implant designs to evaluate the short-term clinical and radiologic results of bone increased offset RSA (BIO-RSA) and metal increased offset RSA (MIO-RSA) in reverse shoulder. We hypothesized no difference between groups. Methods: This study analyzed n = 62 BIO-RSA and n = 90 MIO-RSA cases with a mean follow-up of 29.7 ± 6.0 months (BIO-RSA, range 24-49 months) and 24.0 ± 1.1 months (MIO-RSA, range 22-28 months). A 145°-onlay humeral stem was utilized in BIO-RSA cases, while a 135°-semi-inlay humeral stem was implanted in all MIO-RSA cases. Preoperative and postoperative radiologic imaging was reviewed to identify signs of scapular notching. Additionally, lateralization was evaluated according to Erickson et al. The constant score, subjective shoulder value, and ROM were evaluated during the baseline and follow-up consultations, and the findings of both groups were subsequently compared. Results: Scapular notching was observed in 7.0% (n = 8) of MIO-RSA cases and 8.1% (n = 5) of BIO-RSA cases (P = .801). MIO-group had a higher lateralization angle (P = .020) and the BIO-group had a higher distalization angle (P = .005). At baseline, mean constant score in the MIO-RSA group was higher than in the BIO-RSA group (P < .001), and it significantly increased to 67.8 ± 12.1P (MIO-RSA) and 69.5 ± 12.3P (BIO-RSA) to a similar level (P = .399). ROM improved in both groups with no significant difference between the two groups at follow-up. Conclusion: BIO-RSA and MIO-RSA in two distinct implant designs provide comparable short-term outcomes with a similar increase in shoulder function with notable variations in the lateralization and distalization angles between both implants. Scapular notching was rarely seen and unaffected by the method of glenoid lateralization. Follow-up investigations of both techniques are necessary to complement and track changes in the long-term outcome.

A stemless anatomic shoulder arthroplasty design provides increased cortical medial calcar bone loading in variable bone densities compared to a short stem implant.

Background: Several studies have reported proximal bone resorption in stemless and press-fit short-stem humeral implants for anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty. The purpose of this biomechanical study was to evaluate implant and cortical bone micromotion of a cortical rim-supported stemless implant compared to a press-fit short stem implant during cyclic loading and static compression testing. Methods: Thirty cadaveric humeri were assigned to 3 groups based on a previously performed density analysis, adopting the metaphyseal and epiphyseal and inferior supporting bone densities for multivariate analyses. Implant fixation was performed in stemless implant in low bone density (SL-L, n = 10) or short stem implant in low bone density (Stem-L, n = 10) and in stemless implant in high bone density (SL-H, n = 10). Cyclic loading with 220 N, 520 N, and 820 N over 1000 cycles at 1.5 Hz was performed with a constant valley load of 25 N. Optical recording allowed for spatial implant tracking and quantification of cortical bone deformations in the medial calcar bone region. Implant micromotion was measured as rotational and translational displacement. Load-to-failure testing was performed at a rate of 1.5 mm/s with ultimate load and stiffness measured. Results: The SL-H group demonstrated significantly reduced implant micromotion compared to both low-density groups (SL-L: P = .014; Stem-L: P = .031). The Stem-L group showed significantly reduced rotational motion and variance in the test results at the 820-N load level compared to the SL-L group (equal variance: P = .012). Implant micromotion and reversible bone deformation were significantly affected by increasing load (P < .001), metaphyseal cancellous (P = .023, P = .013), and inferior supporting bone density (P = .016, P = .023). Absolute cortical bone deformation was significantly increased with stemless implants in lower densities and percentage reversible bone deformation was significantly higher for the SL-H group (21 ± 7%) compared to the Stem-L group (12 ± 6%, P = .017). Conclusion: A cortical rim-supported stemless implant maintained proximally improved dynamic bone loading in variable bone densities compared to a press-fit short stem implant. Biomechanical time-zero implant micromotion in lower bone densities was comparable between short stem and stemless implants at rehabilitation load levels (220 N, 520 N), but with higher cyclic stability and reduced variability for stemmed implantation at daily peak loads (820 N).

The Subscapularis Healing Index: A New Scoring System for Predicting Subscapularis Healing After Arthroscopic Repair.

BACKGROUND: Previous research has emphasized the effect of prognostic factors on arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) success, but a specific focus on subscapularis (SSC) tendon repair healing is lacking. PURPOSE: To identify prognostic factors for SSC healing after ARCR and develop the Subscapularis Healing Index (SSC-HI) by incorporating these factors. STUDY DESIGN: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: This was a retrospective study using prospectively maintained data collected from patients with isolated or combined SSC tears who underwent ARCR between 2011 and 2021 at a single institution with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scale. SSC tendon healing was evaluated via ultrasound at the final follow-up. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors affecting SSC healing, and based on these factors, the SSC-HI, which ranges from 0 to 15 points, was developed using odds ratios (ORs). RESULTS: Among 1018 ARCR patients, 931 met the inclusion criteria; 279 returned voluntarily for postoperative SSC ultrasound assessment. The overall healing failure rate was 10.8% (30/279). Risk factors for healing failure included female sex (P = .008; OR, 3.119), body mass index (BMI) ≥30 (P = .053; OR, 2.323), supraspinatus fatty infiltration ≥3 (P = .033; OR, 3.211), lower SSC fatty infiltration ≥2 (P = .037; OR, 3.608), and Lafosse classification ≥3 (P = .007; OR, 3.224). A 15-point scoring system comprised the following: 3 points for female sex, 2 points for BMI ≥30, 3 points for supraspinatus fatty infiltration ≥3, 4 points for lower SSC fatty infiltration ≥2, and 3 points for Lafosse classification ≥3. Patients with ≤4 points had a 4% healing failure rate, while those with ≥9 points had a 55% rate of healing failure. Patients with a healed SSC reported significantly higher ASES (healed SSC: ΔASES, 44.7; unhealed SSC: ΔASES, 29; P < .01) and SSV (healed SSC: ΔSSV, 52.9; unhealed SSC: ΔSSV, 27.5; P < .01) and lower VAS (healed SSC: ΔVAS, -4.2; unhealed SSC: ΔVAS, -3; P < .01) scores compared with those with an unhealed SSC. CONCLUSION: The SSC-HI scoring system integrates clinical and radiological factors to predict SSC healing after surgical repair. Successful SSC healing was found to be associated with enhanced functional outcomes, underscoring the clinical relevance of SSC healing prediction in the management of these tears.

Functional Internal Rotation is Associated with Subscapularis Tendon Healing and Increased Scapular Tilt after Grammont style BIO RSA with 155° humeral implant.

BACKGROUND: While forward flexion consistently improves after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), restoration of internal rotation behind the back (IR1) is much less predictable. This study aims to evaluate the role of the subscapularis tendon in restoration of IR and identify other factors that may influence IR such as anterior scapular tilt and postoperative passive internal rotation at 90° of abduction (IR2). The hypothesis was that IR1 is positively associated with both subscapularis healing, postoperative passive IR2, and anterior scapular tilt. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed on a consecutive series of Grammont style BIO (bony increased offset) RSAs performed by a single surgeon between January 2014 and December 2015. Inclusion criteria were: (1) primary RSA for rotator cuff arthropathy, massive irreparable rotator cuff tear, or primary osteoarthritis with B2 glenoid morphology, (2) minimum of two years clinical follow-up, and (3) complete intraoperative repair of a repairable subscapularis tendon. The primary outcomes were postoperative return of IR1 compared to postoperative IR2, healing rate of subscapularis tendon, and scapular tilt. RESULTS: The cohort included 77 patients, aged 72.6±7.0 years at index surgery and comprising 32 men (42%) and 45 women (58%). At a mean follow-up of 3.3±1.0 years, ultrasound evaluation revealed a successful repair of the subscapularis in 41 patients (53%). Healed subscapularis repair was significantly associated with greater IR1 (85% vs. 53%, p=0.031). A multivariate logistic regression revealed functional postoperative IR1 was independently associated with subscapularis healing (OR, 4.3; 95%CI [1.1-20.2]; p=0.046) as well as greater anterior tilt (OR, 1.2; 95%CI [1.1-1.5]; p=0.008) and postoperative IR2 (OR, 1.09; 95%CI [1.05-1.14]; p<0.001) but lower postoperative passive abduction (OR, 0.96; 95%CI [0.92-1.00], p=0.045). The area under receiver operating characteristic curve obtained with the Youden index was 0.88 with a sensitivity of 81.8% and specificity of 90.6%. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that in a Grammont-type RSA, postoperative IR1 recovery is first associated with subscapularis tendon healing, followed by IR2 and finally the ability to tilt the scapula anteriorly. Better understanding of these factors preoperatively may provide greater insight on expected return of functional internal after RSA.

Determining minimal clinically important difference and patient-acceptable symptom state after arthroscopic isolated subscapularis repair.

Background: Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) and Patient-Acceptable Symptomatic State (PASS) have emerged as patient-based treatment assessments. However, these have not been investigated in patients undergoing arthroscopic isolated subscapularis repair (AISR). The primary purpose of this study was to determine the MCID and PASS for commonly used patient-reported outcomes in individuals who underwent AISR. The secondary purpose was to assess potential associations between preoperative and intraoperative patient characteristics and the MCID and PASS. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on prospectively collected data for patients who underwent primary AISR between 2011 and 2021 at a single institution, with minimum 2-year postoperative follow-up. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scale. The MCID was determined using the distribution-based method, while PASS was evaluated using area under the curve analysis. To investigate the relationship between preoperative variables and the achievement of MCID and PASS thresholds, Pearson and Spearman coefficient analyses were employed for continuous and noncontinuous variables, respectively. Results: A total of 77 patients with a mean follow-up of 58.1 months were included in the study. The calculated MCID values for VAS pain, ASES, and SSV were 1.2, 10.2, and 13.2, respectively. The PASS values for VAS pain, ASES, and SSV were 2.1, 68.8, and 68, respectively. There was no significant correlation between tear characteristics and the likelihood of achieving a MCID or PASS. Female sex, worker's compensation status, baseline VAS pain score, and baseline ASES score, exhibited weak negative correlations for achieving PASS for VAS pain and ASES. Conclusion: This study defined the MCID and PASS values for commonly used outcome measures at short-term follow-up in patients undergoing AISR. Tear characteristics do not appear to impact the ability to achieve a MCID or PASS after AISR. Female sex, worker's compensation claim, and low baseline functional scores have weak negative correlations with the achievement of PASS for VAS pain and ASES scores.

The subcoracoid distance is correlated with pain and internal rotation after reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Background: A proposed etiology of anterior shoulder pain and limited internal rotation after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is impingement of the humeral component on the coracoid or conjoint tendon. The primary goal of this study was to investigate radiographic surrogates for potential coracoid or conjoint tendon impingement and their relationship to postoperative pain and internal rotation after RSA. Methods: A retrospective review of a clinical registry was performed to identify patients with (1) primary RSA, (2) minimum 2-year clinical follow-up, and (3) satisfactory postoperative axillary lateral radiographs. The primary radiographic measurement of interest was the subcoracoid distance (SCD), defined as the distance between the posterior aspect of the coracoid and the anterior glenosphere. Additional measurements were as follows: anterior glenosphere overhang, posterior glenosphere overhang, native glenoid width, lateralization of glenosphere relative to the coracoid tip, lateralization shoulder angle, and distalization shoulder angle. The primary clinical outcome of interest was the 2-year postoperative Visual Analog Scale score. Secondary outcomes were (1) internal rotation (IR) defined by spinal level (IRspine), (2) IR at 90 degrees of abduction, (3) American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, (4) forward flexion, and (5) external rotation at 0 degrees of abduction. Linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the relationship of the various radiographic measures on the clinical outcomes of interest. Results: Two hundred seventeen patients were included. There was a statistically significant relationship between the SCD and Visual Analog Scale scores: B = -0.497, P = .047. There was a statistically significant relationship between the SCD and IRspine: B = -1.667, P < .001. Metallic lateralization was also positively associated with improving IRspine; increasing body mass index was negatively associated. There was a statistically significant relationship between the SCD and IR at 90 degrees of abduction: B = 5.844, P = .034. Conclusion: For RSA with a 135° neck shaft angle and lateralized glenoid, the postoperative SCD has a significant association with pain and IR. Decreasing SCD was associated with increased pain and decreased IR, indicating that coracoid or conjoint tendon impingement may be an important and potentially under-recognized etiology of pain and decreased IR following RSA. Further investigations aimed toward identifying a critical SCD to improve pain and IR may allow surgeons to preoperatively plan component position to improve clinical outcomes after RSA.

Rates of subacromial notching are low following reverse shoulder arthroplasty with a 135° inlay humeral component and a lateralized glenoid.

Background: Lateralization in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) decreases bony impingement and improves rotational range of motion, but has been theorized to increase the risk of subacromial notching (SaN). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the presence of SaN following RSA and its relationship with lateralization with a 135° inlay humeral component. The secondary purpose was to assess the association of SaN with functional outcomes. Methods: A retrospective review was performed from a multicenter prospectively collected database on patients who underwent primary RSA from 2015 to 2021. All RSAs were performed with a 135° inlay humeral component. SaN was defined as bony erosion with sclerotic margins on the undersurface of the acromion on final follow-up radiographs not present preoperatively. Postoperative implant positioning (inclination, distalization, and lateralization) were evaluated on minimum 1-year postoperative radiographs. Regression analyses were performed on implant and clinical variables to assess for risk factors. A separate analysis was performed to determine the association of SaN with clinical outcomes. Results: SaN was identified in 13 out of 442 shoulders (2.9%). Age, sex, body mass index, smoking status, diabetes mellitus, arm dominance had no relationship with SaN. Neither glenoid sided lateralization nor humeral offset were associated with SaN risk. Other implant characteristics such as distalization, glenosphere size, and postoperative inclination did not influence SaN risk. The presence of SaN did not affect patient-reported outcomes (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons: P = .357, Visual Analog Scale: P = .210) or range of motion. Conclusion: The rate of SaN is low and not associated with glenoid or humeral prosthetic lateralization when using a 135° inlay humeral component. When SaN occurs, it is not associated with functional outcomes or range of motion at short-term follow-up.

Are Lower Passive Anterior Elevation and External Rotation at 6 Weeks Postoperatively Associated With Healing of Isolated Arthroscopic Supraspinatus Repairs?

BACKGROUND: Despite advancements in surgical technique, failure of tendon healing remains a common problem after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between range of motion (ROM) recovery and healing after ARCR. It was hypothesized that an early loss of ROM would be associated with tendon healing. STUDY DESIGN: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: This was a retrospective comparative study of primary ARCR of isolated full-thickness supraspinatus (SSN) tendon tears. Cases were retrieved from a prospective rotator cuff repair database and divided into 2 groups based on healing (healed/nonhealed). A standardized clinical evaluation was performed before and at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. Collected data included passive and active ROM, visual analog scale for pain, and Constant score. Healing was assessed by ultrasound at 6 months. RESULTS: Of 1397 eligible ARCRs, 1207 were included. The healing rate was 86.7%. Age was higher in the nonhealed group (57.8 ± 7.9 years vs 61.6 ± 8.8 years; P < .001). Patients with healed repairs had a larger decrease in passive anterior elevation (AE) from the preoperative to the 6-week postoperative visit (-31°± 28° vs -18°± 26°; P < .001), followed by a more substantial increase throughout the remaining follow-up period (32°± 23° vs 18°± 21°; P < .001). At 6 months postoperatively, there was no difference in AE between groups (159°± 17° vs 161°± 14°; P > .999). External rotation elbow at side (ER1) and internal rotation hand in the back (IR1) followed similar courses of recovery. Passive and active ROM had a strong positive correlation at each follow-up. Age (odds ratio [OR], 1.79; 95% CI, 1.45-2.23; P < .001) and 6-week passive AE (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.20-1.48; P < .001) and ER1 (OR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.03-1.29; P = .017) were predictors for nonhealing. CONCLUSION: Lower passive AE and ER1 at 6 weeks postoperatively and younger age are associated with healing after ARCR of isolated SSN tendon tears. At 6 months postoperatively, there were no differences in ROM, regardless of tendon healing.

Posteroinferior glenosphere positioning is associated with improved range of motion following reverse shoulder arthroplasty with a 135° inlay humeral component and lateralized glenoid.

BACKGROUND: Optimal glenosphere positioning in a lateralized reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) to maximize functional outcomes has yet to be clearly defined. Center of rotation (COR) measurements have largely relied on anteroposterior radiographs, which allow assessment of lateralization and inferior position, but ignore scapular Y radiographs, which may provide an assessment of the posterior and inferior position relative to the acromion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the COR in the sagittal plane and assess the effect of glenosphere positioning with functional outcomes using a 135° inlay stem with a lateralized glenoid. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed on a prospectively maintained multicenter database on patients who underwent primary RSA from 2015 to 2021 with a 135° inlay stem. The COR was measured on minimum 2-year postoperative sagittal plain radiographs using a best-fit circle fit method. A best-fit circle was made on the glenosphere and the center was marked. From there, 4 measurements were made: (1) center to the inner cortex of the coracoid, (2) center to the inner cortex of the anterior acromion, (3) center to the inner cortex of the middle acromion, and (4) center to the inner cortex of the posterior acromion. Regression analysis was performed to evaluate any association between the position of the COR relative to bony landmarks with functional outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 136 RSAs met the study criteria. There was no relation with any of the distances with outcome scores (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form, visual analog scale). In regard to range of motion (ROM), each distance had an effect on at least 1 parameter. The COR to coracoid distance had the broadest association with ROM, with improvements in forward flexion (FF), external rotation (ER0), and internal rotation with the arm at 90° (IR90) (P < .001, P = .031, and P < .001, respectively). The COR to coracoid distance was also the only distance to affect the final FF and IR90. For every 1-mm increase in this distance, there was a 1.8° increase in FF and 1.5° increase in IR90 (ß = 1.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85-2.72, P < .001, and ß = 1.53, 95% CI 0.65-2.41, P < .001; respectively). CONCLUSION: Evaluation of the COR following RSA in the sagittal plane suggests that a posteroinferior glenosphere position may improve ROM when using a 135° inlay humeral component and a lateralized glenoid.

Editorial Commentary: Massive Rotator Cuff Tears Benefit From Arthroscopic Repair Regardless of Advanced Goutallier or Hamada Changes.

Massive rotator cuff tears are a challenge to treat, with options available from arthroscopic rotator cuff repair to reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Arthroscopic repair may still be an option even in the setting of advanced Goutallier changes and Hamada grades and regardless of healing. As the lifetime risk of revision for a 55-year-old patient having a reverse shoulder arthroplasty is approximately 1 in 3, arthroscopic surgical management of massive rotator cuff tears should not be discounted. An individualized approach should consider the patient's radiographs (severity of arthritis), function (i.e., acute vs chronic pseudoparalysis), and goals (overhead strength vs pain relief). Younger patients with less arthritis, acute pseudoparalysis, and a focus on pain relief could benefit from arthroscopic treatment.

Midterm outcomes of primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty: a systematic review of studies with minimum 5-year follow-up.

Background: Excellent short-term outcomes after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) have been reported, but longer term outcomes in the existing literature are sparse and vary widely. The purpose of this study is to systematically assess the existing literature to quantify functional outcomes and complication rates after RSA at a minimum of five years of follow-up. Methods: A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses-compliant systematic literature search of the PubMed and Embase databases was undertaken. Studies reporting outcomes after primary RSA for nontrauma-related indications with a minimum of 5-year follow-up were included. Results: Overall, 20 studies satisfied all inclusion criteria. This represented 1591 shoulders in 1556 patients (32.1% males), with a mean age of 70.2 ± 5.0 years and mean follow-up of 8.8 years, or 106.2 ± 30.1 months (60-243). At final follow-up, the mean reported Constant Murley score was 62.1 ± 5.0 (49.0-83.0). The mean adjusted Constant Murley score was 83.5 ± 12.5 (58-111.9). The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 81.8 ± 4.6, while the mean subjective shoulder value was 74.6 ± 6.4. Overall, 88% of patients rated their satisfaction as either good or very good. The range of active forward flexion, abduction, external, and internal rotation were respectively, 126° ± 13°, 106° ± 11°, 22° ± 11°, and 6° ± 2°. The overall rate of revision surgery was 4.9% (0%-45.5%). Regarding complications, the rate of prosthetic joint infection was 4.3% (0%-26.7%), shoulder dislocation was 3.7% (0%-20.4%), and acromial fracture was 2.0% (0%-8.8%). At final follow-up, 30.9% of shoulders had some degree of scapular notching. Conclusion: This systematic review shows that RSA results in high satisfaction rates, good clinical outcomes, as well as modest complication and revision rates at minimum 5-year follow-up.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for massive rotator cuff tears without glenohumeral arthritis can improve clinical outcomes despite history of prior rotator cuff repair: A systematic review.

IMPORTANCE: Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is often used to surgically address massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCT) without arthritis. The impact of prior attempted rotator cuff repair (RCR) on outcomes is unclear. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this systematic review was to compare functional outcomes, range of motion, and complications in patients with a MIRCT without arthritis who underwent RSA as a primary procedure versus after prior RCR. EVIDENCE REVIEW: A systematic review was performed on RSA for a MIRCT. The search was conducted from February to March of 2022 using the MEDLINE database. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROs), range of motion (ROM), and complications were extracted. These outcomes were weighted and analysed based on whether the reverse was performed as the primary procedure or following a prior RCR. FINDINGS: Seven studies were included in the analysis, consisting of 343 cases in the primary RSA group and 95 cases in the prior RCR group, with a mean follow-up of 40.8 months. There were no demographic differences between cohorts. Postoperative PROs and ROM were comparable between groups, although the prior RCR group had a higher maximal percentage of improvement (MPI%) for the Constant-Murley Score and Simple Shoulder Test. There was a higher risk for complications (relative risk [RR] 6.26) and revisions (RR 3.91) in the prior RCR group. The most common complications were acromial stress fractures and prosthetic dislocation. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE: Patients undergoing RSA for MIRCT following a prior RCR have functional outcomes that are largely comparable to those who have a primary RSA, but they may be at higher risk of complications and revision. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Clinical Outcomes and Tendon Healing After Arthroscopic Isolated Subscapularis Tendon Repair: Results at Midterm Follow-up.

Background: Few studies have reported clinical outcomes and tendon healing rates after arthroscopic isolated subscapularis (SSC) repair (AISR). Purpose/Hypothesis: The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes and tendon healing after AISR. It was hypothesized that AISR would result in satisfactory clinical outcomes along with a high rate of tendon healing at the midterm follow-up. The secondary purpose was to assess the influence of tear size and muscle atrophy on SSC tendon healing and patient-reported outcomes. It was hypothesized that both would be negatively correlated with healing but would have no effect on clinical outcomes . Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on prospectively collected data for 77 patients who underwent primary AISR between 2011 and 2021 at a single institution, with a minimum 2-year postoperative follow-up for all patients. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, the Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and the visual analog scale for pain. Repair techniques and concomitant procedures were also collected. SSC tendon healing was evaluated via ultrasound at the final follow-up. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine factors affecting SSC healing. Results: The mean follow-up was 58.1 ± 3.3 months. ASES scores significantly improved from 41.5 to 81.6, and the SSV improved from 38.2 to 80.5 (P < .01 for both). Among the 40 patients (51.9%) who underwent postoperative ultrasound, 87.5% showed complete tendon healing. There were no significant differences in outcome scores between healed and unhealed tendons. Increased muscle atrophy and larger tears were correlated with failure of SSC healing (ß = -0.285 [P = .015] and ß = -0.157 [P = .045], respectively). Conclusion: Improved clinical outcomes and an overall high rate of tendon healing were seen at the midterm follow-up after AISR. Smaller tear sizes with less muscle atrophy were correlated with improved tendon healing. However, even when the tendon incompletely healed, the procedure improved functional outcomes.

Stemless anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty is associated with less early postoperative pain.

Background: Improvements in pain control after shoulder arthroplasty with a reduction in narcotic use continues to be an important postoperative goal. With the increased utilization of stemless anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA), it is relevant to compare between stemmed and stemless arthroplasty to assess if there is any association between this implant design change and early postoperative pain. Methods: Patients from a multicenter, prospectively-maintained database who had undergone a stemless aTSA with a minimum of two year clinical follow-up were retrospectively identified. Patients who underwent aTSA with a short stem were identified in the same registry, and matched to the stemless aTSA patients by age, sex and preoperative pain score. The primary study outcome was the Visual Analog Scale pain score. Secondary pain outcomes were the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder pain subscore, Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder physical symptoms subscore, and the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score. Finally, the percentage of patients who could sleep on the affected shoulder was assessed for each group. These pain-related clinical outcomes were assessed and compared preoperatively, and postoperatively at 9 weeks, 26 weeks, one year and two years. For all statistical comparisons, P > .05 was considered significant. Results: 124 patients were included in the study; 62 in each group. At 9 weeks after surgery, statistically significantly improved pain control was reported by patients undergoing stemless aTSA, as assessed by the Visual Analog Scale (stemless: 1.5, stemmed: 2.5, P = .001), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons pain subscore (stemless: 42.4, stemmed: 37.3, P < .001), Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder Physical Symptoms (stemless: 80.3, stemmed: 73.1, P = .006) and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (stemless: 58.1, stemmed: 47.4, P = .011). Patients who underwent a stemless aTSA were significantly more likely to be able to sleep on the affected shoulder at 9 weeks (29% vs. 11%, odds ratio 3.2, 95% confidence interval 1.2-8.4, P = .014). By 26 weeks postoperatively, there were no differences in all pain-specific outcomes. At two years postoperatively, patient-reported outcomes, range of motion, and strength measures were all similar between the two cohorts. Conclusion: Stemless aTSA provides earlier improvement in postoperative shoulder pain compared to matched patients undergoing short-stem aTSA. Additionally, earlier return to sleeping on the affected shoulder was reported in the stemless aTSA group. The majority of these differences dissipate by 26 weeks postoperatively and there were no differences in pain, patient-reported outcomes, range of motion or strength measures between stemless and short-stem aTSA at 2 years postoperatively.

Obesity is associated with improvement in functional outcome but lower internal rotation after reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Background: The role of obesity as an independent risk factor for increased complications following reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) continues to generate debate. While no standardized body mass index (BMI) cutoff values for shoulder arthroplasty exist, many surgeons are concerned about the potential for poor outcomes and decreased range of motion (ROM) in patients with a high BMI. The purpose of this study was to compare functional outcomes in obese and nonobese patients preoperatively and at short-term follow-up after RSA. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of a prospectively maintained, multicenter database of primary RSAs performed by 14 surgeons between 2015 and 2019 with minimum 2-year follow-up. A total of 245 patients met the study criteria, including 111 obese (BMI >30) and 134 nonobese (BMI <30) patients. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) as well as ROM measurements were compared between the 2 groups. Results: At baseline, obese patients had significantly lower American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (36.6 vs. 42.0, P = .014), Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder scores (33.1 vs. 37.8, P = .043), external rotation at 90° (19° vs. 28°, P = .007), internal rotation (IR) spinal level (L5 vs. L4, P = .002), and belly press strength (P = .003) compared to the nonobese cohort. There were no statistical differences in 2-year outcomes (PROs, ROM, and strength) other than a worse IR (spinal level) in the low BMI group (L4 vs. L3, P = .002). In linear regression analyses controlling for confounding variables, increasing BMI was negatively correlated with preoperative external rotation (B = -0.591, P = .034) and preoperative IR spinal level (B = 0.089, P = .002). Increasing BMI was not correlated with postoperative external rotation at 90° (B = 0.189, P = .490) but was associated with worse postoperative IR by spinal level (B = 0.066, P = .043). Conclusions: Obese patients have greater restrictions in external and internal rotation as well as American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder scores at baseline prior to RSA. However, there are no major differences in postoperative PROs or ROM measurements between obese and nonobese patients apart from a worse active IR by spinal level in the obese group (L4 vs. L3, P = .002). This study suggests that an RSA procedure does not need to be restricted solely based on BMI.

Effect of osteophyte removal on simulated range of motion using 3-dimensional preoperative planning software for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

Background: Glenohumeral osteophytes (OPs) can adversely influence postoperative range of motion (ROM) following shoulder arthroplasty due to mechanical impingement. Though commercial three-dimensional preoperative planning software (3D PPS) is available to simulate ROM before and after OP resection, little is known about the magnitude of effect OPs and their subsequent removal have on simulated glenohumeral ROM. Methods: Included patients were 1) indicated for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) using 3D PPS and 2) presented with glenoid and/or humeral head OPs on preoperative two-dimensional computed tomography (2D-CT) imaging. Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria (9 females, 21 males; mean age 70.45 ± 4.99 years, range 63-80 years). All subjects (n = 30) presented with humeral OPs (mean volume: 2905.16 mm3, range 109.1-11,246 mm3), while 11 subjects also presented with glenoid OPs (mean volume 108.06 mm3, range 37.59-791.4 mm3). Preoperative CTs were used to calculate OP volume (mm3) and OP circumferential extent (clockface). Mean clockface position for circumferential humeral OPs originated at 6:09 (range 4:30-7:15) and extended to 8:51 (range 8:15-10:15). Mean clockface position for glenoid OPs originated at 3:00 (range 2:00-5:00) and extended to 6:16 (range 3:00-7:30). 3D implants on PPS were standardized to achieve 0° of version, 0° of inclination and 4 mm of net lateralization. Thirty-nine and thirty-six mm glenospheres were used for males and females, respectively. 3D PPS was used to evaluate simulated ROM differences before and after OP removal in the planes of adduction (ADD), abduction, internal rotation (IR), external rotation (ER), extension, and flexion. Impact of OP volume and circumferential extent on pre and postop removal ROM were also analyzed. Results: Humeral OP removal significantly increased impingement-free ADD, IR, ER, extension, and flexion. Removal of larger (mm3) humeral OPs positively correlated with improvement in IR (R = 0.452, P = .011), ER (R = 0.394, P = .033), and flexion (R = 0.500, P < .01). Greater circumferential extent of humeral OPs correlated with worse preremoval ROM in the planes of ADD (R = 0.364, P = .02) and extension (R = 0.403, P = .04), and improvements in ER postop removal (R = 0.431, P = .03). Conclusion: Humeral OP removal significantly increases impingement-free ADD, IR, ER, extension, and flexion in simulated 3D PPS models following rTSA. Magnitude of simulated ROM improvement is influenced by initial humeral OP volume and circumferential clockface extent. Surgeons should consider these effects when using 3D PPS for rTSA planning to optimize postoperative ROM prognostics.

Surgical Management of Massive Irreparable Cuff Tears: Superior Capsule Reconstruction and Rotator Cable Reconstruction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) present treatment challenges. Recently, superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) and anterior cable reconstruction have emerged as surgical options, but no single approach is superior. This review provides an overview of SCR and cable reconstruction techniques, including biomechanical studies, clinical outcomes, and surgical considerations. RECENT FINDINGS: Biomechanical studies show SCR with autografts or allografts improves glenohumeral stability and mechanics. Clinical outcomes of SCR demonstrate improved range of motion, function scores, and pain relief in short-term studies. Anterior cable reconstruction reduces superior humeral head translation and subacromial pressures in biomechanical models. Early clinical studies report improved rotator cuff healing and outcomes for cable reconstruction in specific irreparable tear patterns. SCR and cable reconstruction are viable surgical options for MIRCTs based on early encouraging results. However, higher-level comparative studies with long-term follow-up are still needed. Careful consideration of tear pattern, patient factors, and surgical goals is required to optimize treatment of MIRCTs. Further research is necessary to determine the optimal role for these procedures.

Robert H. Cofield, MD, Award for Best Oral Presentation 2023: Up to 8 mm of glenoid-sided lateralization does not increase the risk of acromial or scapular spine stress fracture following reverse shoulder arthroplasty with a 135° inlay humeral component.

BACKGROUND: Glenoid-sided lateralization in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) decreases bony impingement and improves rotational range of motion, but has been theorized to increase the risk of acromial or scapular spine fractures (ASFs). The purpose of this study was to assess if glenoid-sided lateralization even up to 8 mm increases the risk for stress fracture following RSA with a 135° inlay humeral component. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed from a multicenter prospectively collected database on patients who underwent primary RSA from 2015 to 2021. All RSAs were performed with a 135° inlay humeral component. Varying amounts of glenoid lateralization were used from 0 to 8 mm. Preoperative radiographs were reviewed for the presence of acromial thinning, acromiohumeral distance (AHD), and inclination. Postoperative implant position (distalization, lateralization, and inclination) as well as the presence of ASF was evaluated on minimum 1-year postoperative radiographs. Regression analyses were performed on component and clinical variables to assess for factors predictive of ASF. RESULTS: Acromial or scapular spine fractures were identified in 26 of 470 shoulders (5.5%). Glenoid-sided lateralization was not associated with ASF risk (P = .890). Furthermore, the incidence of fracture did not vary based on glenoid-sided lateralization (0-2 mm, 7.4%; 4 mm, 5.6%; 6 mm, 4.4%; 8 mm, 6.0%; P > .05 for all comparisons). RSA on the dominant extremity was predictive of fracture (odds ratio [OR] 2.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20-5.75; P = .037), but there was no relationship between patient age, sex, preoperative acromial thinning, or diagnosis and risk of fracture. Although there was no difference in mean postoperative AHD between groups (P = .443), the pre- to postoperative delta AHD was higher in the stress fracture group (2.0 ± 0.7 cm vs. 1.7 ± 0.7 cm; P = .015). For every centimeter increase in delta AHD, there was a 121% increased risk for fracture (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.33-3.68; P = .012). Additionally, for every 1-mm increase in inferior glenosphere overhang, there was a 19% increase in fracture risk (P = .025). CONCLUSION: Up to 8 mm of glenoid-sided metallic lateralization does not appear to increase the risk of ASF when combined with a 135° inlay humeral implant. Humeral distalization increases the risk of ASF, particularly when there is a larger change between pre- and postoperative AHD or higher inferior glenosphere overhang. In cases of pronounced preoperative superior humeral migration, it may be a consideration to avoid excessive postoperative distalization, but minimizing bony impingement via glenoid-sided lateralization appears to be safe.