Variable Return-to-Sport Rates Despite Improved Shoulder Function and Outcomes Scores After Primary Reverse Shoulder...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is increasingly used for functional restoration in older populations.
• The effectiveness of RSA for return to sport (RTS) in athletic individuals remains under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the rates of return to sport (RTS) following primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA).

Main Methods:

• A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases.
• Included studies reported on RTS after primary RSA, collecting data on RTS rates, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and range of motion (ROM).
• Study quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria.

Main Results:

• Fifteen studies involving 937 patients (954 shoulders) were analyzed, with mean age 72.7 years and follow-up of 40.5 months.
• Overall RTS rates ranged from 48% to 100%, with specific rates for golf (50%-100%) and swimming (64%-67%).
• Patients reported improved postoperative outcomes, with significant positive changes in pain scores, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, and Simple Shoulder Test scores.

Conclusions:

• Primary RSA demonstrates variable but often successful RTS rates across different sports.
• The procedure leads to improved patient-reported outcomes and range of motion post-surgery.
• RSA is a viable option for athletes seeking to return to sport after shoulder joint replacement.