Psychological disorders confer poor functional outcomes after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Patient outcomes research

Background:

• Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a common procedure for various shoulder conditions.
• Preoperative patient factors may influence RTSA outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between psychological disorders, substance abuse, and outcomes after RTSA.
• To identify risk factors affecting postoperative complications and functional results.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 128 patients undergoing RTSA (2010-2017).
• Data collected: American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, Simple Shoulder Test (SST), range of motion (ROM), complications, radiographic outcomes, and patient satisfaction.
• Minimum 2-year follow-up (average 3.68 years) with statistical analysis of risk factors.

Main Results:

• Psychological diagnoses were linked to lower ASES and SST scores and poorer external rotation.
• Patients with psychological disorders had a higher prevalence of complications, including major ones.
• Substance abuse history correlated with reduced external rotation.

Conclusions:

• Preoperative psychological diagnoses and substance abuse history are associated with worse objective and functional outcomes post-RTSA.
• These factors represent significant risk factors impacting patient recovery and satisfaction.