Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty in Osteoarthritis Evaluation of the Results

The aging structure of society results in a growing need for treatment of shoulder osteoarthritis. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has been developed to improve the motor function and strength of the shoulder joint without increasing the risk of dislocation. The aim of the study was to assess the change in quality of life and functional assessment of the shoulder joint after RSA in patients with osteoarthritis, based on the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) and an assessment of joint mobility parameters.

A total of 10 patients were admitted to our centre for shoulder arthroplasty between August 2020 and October 2021. The assessment of the degenerative changes was based on the Walch classification and the Samelson & Prieto classification. The OSS questionnaire was used to assess function of the affected shoulder joint and pain in each patient. The range of motion in the shoulder joint was assessed in the pre- and postoperative period. A follow-up examination was performed approximately 6 months after surgery.

Analysis of the OSS scores revealed a mean value of 46 points preoperatively and 25 points postoperatively. The OSS scores six months after the procedure were an average of 20.5 points lower. A statistically significant improvement was noted in shoulder flexion (mean 37), abduction (42), external rotation (34), and internal rotation (5)(p<0.05).

Each patient reported reduced pain and demonstrated an increased range of motion in the affected shoulder joint and functional improvement.