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Shoulder function in patients with deltoid paralysis and intact rotator cuff
J-D Werthel1, J Bertelli2, B T Elhassan1
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200, First Street S.W., 55905 Rochester, MN, USA.
Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Surgery & Research : OTSR
|July 15, 2017
Summary
Patients with complete deltoid paralysis and intact rotator cuff retain significant shoulder function long-term. This shoulder function, including range of motion and strength, is sustained over time.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Shoulder biomechanics
- Rehabilitation medicine
Background:
- Deltoid paralysis significantly impacts shoulder function.
- Rotator cuff integrity is crucial for shoulder stability and motion.
- Understanding long-term outcomes in deltoid paralysis is essential for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the mid/long-term shoulder function in patients with complete deltoid paralysis and an intact rotator cuff.
- To assess the durability of shoulder function over time in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 27 patients with complete deltoid paralysis and intact rotator cuff.
- Minimum 2-year follow-up (average 68 months).
- Outcome measures included pain, range of motion (ROM), deltoid extension lag test (DELT), swallowtail test (STT), Bertelli test, subjective fatigability, and modified Neer ratings.
Main Results:
- At average 68 months follow-up, mean shoulder abduction was 131°, flexion 153°.
- External rotation was 58° with arm at side and 58° with arm abducted.
- All patients reported quick fatigability, which remained unchanged; average pain score was 2. Eighteen patients had positive STT and DELT tests, and all had a positive Bertelli test.
Conclusions:
- Patients with deltoid paralysis and intact rotator cuff maintain substantial shoulder function long-term.
- The observed shoulder function is sustained over time, indicating a stable recovery pattern.
- Despite fatigability, functional outcomes suggest preserved shoulder capabilities in this specific patient group.
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