Do younger patients have better results after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty?

As surgeons have become more adept and midterm to long-term results have demonstrated improved patient outcomes, the indications for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) have expanded. This study compares the clinical outcomes and complication rates between patients 65 years and younger and patients 70 years and older undergoing RTSA.

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected cohort with minimum 2-year follow-up was performed at a single institution. Patient demographic data, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, range of motion, patient satisfaction, notching, and complication rates were analyzed.

There were 32 patients (57 ± 4.9 years old) in the 65 years and younger group, whereas 50 patients (76 ± 4.9 years old) were in the 70 years and older group. The mean follow-up time was 3 years (range, 2-8 years). There were no significant differences in preoperative, postoperative, or change in ASES scores between the younger and older groups. Postoperatively, the younger cohort achieved a higher degree (mean) of forward flexion (133° vs. 117°), abduction (127° vs. 110°), and external rotation (40° vs. 27°) (P < .05). The average improvement in forward flexion and external rotation was also found to be larger in the younger cohort (P < .05). The younger and older groups had comparable complication rates, notching rates, and overall satisfaction rates.

Patient-reported outcomes scores and complication rates after RTSA of patients aged 65 years and younger were similar to those of patients aged 70 years and older. However, younger patients were able to achieve increased postoperative range of motion.