Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in obese patients

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Biomedical engineering
• Patient outcomes research

Background:

• Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a common procedure for complex shoulder conditions.
• The impact of obesity on RTSA outcomes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare functional outcomes and complication rates of RTSA in obese versus nonobese patients.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of RTSA in an obese population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 76 RTSA patients (2005-2011).
• Patients classified by BMI: obese, overweight, normal weight.
• Analysis of surgical data, functional outcomes, and postoperative complications.

Main Results:

• Obese patients showed significant improvements in range of motion post-RTSA.
• Complication rates were significantly higher in the obese group (35%) compared to normal weight (4%).
• No significant differences observed in scapular notching, surgical time, hospitalization, component loosening, or instability.

Conclusions:

• RTSA offers functional benefits for obese patients, including enhanced motion.
• Obesity is associated with an increased risk of complications following RTSA.
• Obesity should not preclude RTSA, but necessitates thorough patient education on elevated risks.