Do patients trust the tech? Exploring perception, confidence, and knowledge of innovations in shoulder arthroplasty

As surgical technologies, such as three-dimensional preoperative planning, computer navigation, and augmented reality, become increasingly utilized in shoulder arthroplasty, questions remain about their value from the patient's perspective. While education and patient interest have driven demand and technology adoption in hip and knee arthroplasty, their role in shoulder procedures remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate patient perceptions of innovative technologies in shoulder arthroplasty and assess whether preoperative education influences confidence, satisfaction, and expectations.

In this prospective observational study, 87 patients scheduled to undergo shoulder arthroplasty at a single institution completed a preoperative survey assessing demographics, baseline familiarity with surgical technologies, and perceptions of surgeon use of innovative tools prior to seeing their provider. Following this, patients then viewed a standardized educational video on the role of technology in shoulder arthroplasty. Postvideo responses measured changes in confidence, satisfaction, and outcome expectations. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and analysis of variance to evaluate prepost changes and demographic associations.

Over half of patients (56.3%) were unfamiliar with innovative technologies at baseline, yet 60.9% reported increased confidence in surgeons using it. Most patients (66.7%) preferred the use of advanced planning technologies, though only 41.5% would choose a low-volume surgeon using these tools over a high-volume surgeon using conventional techniques. Improvements in confidence were significantly correlated with higher education and income levels (r = 0.31, P = .003). After viewing an educational video, patient confidence in their surgeon increased (P = .03), and expectations for improved outcomes (P < .001), fewer complications (P < .001), less pain (P < .001), and faster recovery (P < .001) significantly rose. Despite favorable perceptions, 62.1% of patients were unwilling to pay more, travel further, or wait longer to receive care involving innovative technologies.

Targeted preoperative education on surgical technology may improve patient confidence, strengthen perceptions of surgeon competency, and elevate expectations of care. While enthusiasm for advanced tools was observed following education, broader adoption may still be influenced by cost and accessibility. These findings support the role of brief, technology-focused education in enhancing the overall patient experience in shoulder arthroplasty.