Prosthesis versus exercise for rotator cuff tear arthropathy - protocol of a randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation

Background:

• Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is established for rotator cuff tear arthropathy.
• Previous studies evaluated RTSA outcomes but lacked direct comparison with non-surgical options.
• A significant gap exists in comparing surgical intervention with conservative exercise-based management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if RTSA is superior to a structured exercise program for patients with rotator cuff tear arthropathy.
• To provide evidence-based guidance for treatment selection in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• A Nordic multicenter randomized controlled trial involving 102 eligible patients.
• Patients were allocated 1:1 to either RTSA with usual care or a 12-week exercise intervention.
• The primary outcome measure is the Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder (WOOS) index at 12 months.

Main Results:

• This section is not yet available as the trial is ongoing.

Conclusions:

• The ongoing trial aims to provide crucial insights into the comparative effectiveness of RTSA versus exercise for rotator cuff tear arthropathy.
• Findings will aid clinicians and patients in making informed treatment decisions.