Transient increase in anxiety and depression following rotator cuff repair

Patients undergoing rotator cuff repair take long periods to recover and are restricted against using their arm initially, which could affect the mental status of these patients. Hence, we sought to assess the anxiety and depression in patients undergoing rotator cuff repair.

A total of 42 consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and followed up for 12 months after surgery were enrolled. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Montgomery Asberg depression rating scale were used to assess anxiety and depression, The clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Quick DASH) score at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months.

Patients undergoing rotator cuff repair had a significant increase in anxiety and depression at 3 months following surgery, which returned to pre-operative levels 9 months following surgery. It reduced to less than pre-operative levels at 12 months. Significant correlations between psychological measures and functional outcomes were observed predominantly at 3 and 6 months post-operatively, with stronger associations noted for QuickDASH scores. All the patients had a significant improvement in the QuickDASH score and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score at final follow-up (P < .01).

Following rotator cuff repair, there is a transient increase in anxiety and depressive symptoms. However, these symptoms reduce significantly at 12 months after surgery. Recognition of patients experiencing anxiety and depression and early psychological counseling in them may improve functional outcomes and facilitate complete recovery.