Pseudoparalysis: a systematic review of term definitions, treatment approaches, and outcomes of management techniques

Defining pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis: a consensus study

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to establish consensus statements via a modified Delphi process on the definition of shoulder pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis.

METHODS

A consensus process on the definition of a diagnosis of pseudoparalysis utilizing a modified Delphi technique was conducted, and 26 shoulder/sports surgeons from 11 countries, selected based on their level of expertise in the field, participated in these consensus statements. Consensus was defined as achieving 80%-89% agreement, whereas strong consensus was defined as 90%-99% agreement, and unanimous consensus was indicated by 100% agreement with a proposed statement.

RESULTS

Three statements regarding the diagnosis of pseudoparalysis reached strong (>89%) consensus: passive range of motion should be unaffected, the passive range of abduction should not be considered, and diagnosis should be excluded if lidocaine injection produces a substantial improvement in range of motion. Additionally, consensus (>79%) was reached that the active range of external rotation should not be considered for diagnosis, pain as a cause of restricted motion must be excluded, and that distinctions between restricted active flexion and external rotation should be made by range of motion rather than tear characteristics. No consensus could be reached on statements regarding the size, number of tendons or chronicity of cuff tears. Nor was there agreement on the active range of flexion permitted or on the difference between pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis.

CONCLUSION

A modified Delphi process was utilized to establish consensus on the definition of shoulder pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis. Unfortunately, almost half of the statements did not reach consensus, and agreement could not be reached across all domains for a unifying definition for the diagnosis of pseudoparalysis in the setting of rotator cuff tears. Furthermore, it was not agreed how or whether pseudoparalysis should be differentiated from pseudoparesis. Based on the lack of a consensus for these terms, studies should report explicitly how these terms are defined when they are used.

Pseudoparalysis and Pseudoparesis of the Shoulder: Definitions, Management, and Outcomes

Loss of shoulder function can be a complex condition to manage. Specifically, the definition between the terms pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis remains inconsistent in the literature based on various factors including chronicity, present pathology, and the role of pain in the loss of function. There is also debate as to the optimal management strategies for these challenging conditions. In the setting of advanced glenohumeral arthritis or arthropathy in the correct patient, arthroplasty provides consistent and reliable results. However, in younger patients or the patient without arthritis, arthroplasty may not be the best option. In some cases, addressing pain with biceps procedures, balloon spacer placement, débridement, or others may be appropriate. However, other instances may require attempts at improving shoulder kinematics with procedures such as rotator cuff repair, superior capsular reconstruction, and tendon transfer. In this review, we discuss current definitions for pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis, in addition to reviewing the indications for the various treatment options and their respective outcomes.

Does the Extent of Tear Influence Pseudoparesis in Patients With Isolated Subscapularis Tears?

BACKGROUND

Surgeons tend to associate pseudoparesis with massive rotator cuff tears. However, little is known about the degree to which isolated subscapularis tears might be associated with pseudoparesis of the shoulder.

QUESTION/PURPOSE

Is the extent of subscapularis tears associated with pseudoparesis?

METHODS

A retrospective analysis identified all patients with subscapularis tears from 2010 to 2021 in the longitudinally maintained shoulder arthroscopy archive of one university hospital's shoulder section of the orthopaedic department. After exclusion, 106 of 152 patients with isolated subscapularis tears who underwent arthroscopic surgery were included in the study. Sixty percent of the patients were women, and the mean ± SD age was 52 ± 11 years. Patients who were scheduled for arthroscopic surgery were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of pseudoparesis preoperatively. Pseudoparesis was considered to be active forward elevation > 45º but < 90º, which is a simple and reproducible measurement that can be taken using a goniometer, and demonstrated complete passive forward elevation. Pseudoparesis was present in 41% (43 of 106) of patients with an isolated subscapularis tear. Data on tear severity (according to Lafosse type, noted during arthroscopy), integrity of the subscapularis tendon (noted during arthroscopy), fatty degeneration (using the Goutallier grading system on MRI), arthroscopic findings of biceps disorder, superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesions, and pain severity (measured by VAS score) were recorded. We used logistic regression analysis to examine the relationship between pseudoparesis and disruption of the tendinous part of the subscapularis.

RESULTS

After accounting for potentially confounding factors such as biceps disorders and muscle atrophy, we found that pseudoparesis was associated with decreased tear severity according to the Lafosse classification (adjusted OR 0.2 [95% CI 0.1 to 0.7]; p = 0.01) and with disruption of the tendinous portion of the subscapularis (adjusted OR 21 [4 to 128]; p = 0.001). Patients with less severe tears (Lafosse type I) have lower odds of experiencing pseudoparesis compared with those with more severe tears (Lafosse types II, III, and IV), and patients with disruption of the tendinous portion of the subscapularis have substantially higher odds of pseudoparesis compared with those with an intact tendinous portion. No association was found between pseudoparesis and subscapularis fatty degeneration, biceps disorder, or SLAP lesions.

CONCLUSION

This study provides initial evidence suggesting that isolated subscapularis tears are associated with pseudoparesis. The main finding of this study is that isolated subscapularis tears that involve the tendon extending to the inferior part of the subscapularis have higher odds of being found with pseudoparesis. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining the integrity of the superior tendinous part of the subscapularis for active forward elevation > 90°.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Editorial Commentary: Tuberoplasty Is a Reliable Option to Address Pain in Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

The massive irreparable rotator cuff tear remains a challenging condition for which there are many reported treatment options, including biceps tenotomy or tenodesis, subacromial decompression, cuff debridement, partial or augmented rotator cuff repair, bursal acromial reconstruction, balloon spacer placement, superior capsular reconstruction, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, and tendon transfer, among others. Optimally treating the condition relies on paying attention to several patient factors, including correctly identifying whether function loss is driven by pain or compromised shoulder kinematics. If pain is the primary limiting factor, then tuberoplasty, or "reversed subacromial decompression," seems to be a reliable option that can afford encouraging results in terms of pain and range of motion in correctly indicated individuals. It is important to note, however, that these results should not be expected in the patient with anterior-superior humeral escape or pseudoparalysis, in whom a kinematic-restoring option may be more appropriate. Considering a history of inconsistent terminology and definitions when it comes to defining massive tears, when they are irreparable, and when the patient has pseudoparesis versus pseudoparalysis, it is paramount to accurately describe patient factors, including preoperative function, in ongoing research.

Reversing chronic pseudoparesis secondary to massive, irreparable rotator cuff tear: superior capsular reconstruction vs. reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

Recent studies have defined pseudoparesis as limited active forward elevation between 45° and 90° and maintained passive range of motion (ROM) in the setting of a massive rotator cuff tear (RCT). Although pseudoparesis can be reliably reversed with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) or superior capsular reconstruction (SCR), the optimal treatment for this indication remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of RSA to SCR in patients with pseudoparesis secondary to massive, irreparable RCT (miRCT).

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients aged 40-70 years with pseudoparesis secondary to miRCT who were treated with either RSA or SCR by a single fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon from 2016 to 2021 with a minimum 12-month follow-up. Multivariate linear regression modeling was used to compare active ROM, visual analog pain scale (VAS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) score between RSA and SCR while controlling for confounding variables.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients were included in the RSA cohort and 23 patients were included in the SCR cohort with similar mean follow-up times (26.2 ± 21.1 vs. 21.9 ± 14.7 months, respectively). The patients in the RSA group were significantly older than those in the SCR group (65.2 ± 4.4 vs. 54.2 ± 7.8 years, P < .001) and had more severe arthritis (1.8 ± 0.9 vs. 1.2 ± 0.5 Samilson-Prieto, P = .019). The pseudoparesis reversal rate among the RSA and SCR cohorts was 96.3% and 91.3%, respectively. On univariate analysis, the RSA cohort demonstrated significantly greater mean improvement in active FF (89° ± 26° vs. 73° ± 30° change, P = .048), greater postoperative SSV (91 ± 8% vs. 69 ± 25%, P < .001), lower postoperative VAS pain scores (0.6 ± 1.2 vs. 2.2 ± 2.9, P = .020), and less postoperative internal rotation (IR; 4.6° ± 1.6° vs. 6.9° ± 1.8°, P = .004) compared with SCR. On multivariate analysis controlling for age and osteoarthritis, RSA remained a significant predictor of greater SSV (β = 21.5, P = .021) and lower VAS scores (β = -1.4, P = .037), whereas SCR was predictive of greater IR ROM (β = 3.0, P = .043).

CONCLUSION

Although both RSA and SCR effectively reverse pseudoparesis, patients with RSA have higher SSV and lower pain scores but less IR after controlling for age and osteoarthritis. The results of this study may inform surgical decision making for patients who are suitable candidates for either procedure.

Combination of arthroscopic biologic tuberoplasty and bursal acromial reconstruction

Background

Recently, among the various method for irreparable rotator cuff tears, the "tension-free allodermis graft technique" has been introduced as a method for arthroscopic biologic tuberoplasty(ABT) and bursal acromial reconstruction(BAR).The objective was to analyze the outcomes of ABT and BAR combination surgical technique.

Methods

Eighteen cases who underwent simultaneous ABT and BAR procedures were retrospectively recruited. Before the surgery and at one year post-surgery, the researchers assessed the patients' Visual Analog Scale(VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons(ASES) scores, pain scores, range of motion(ROM), retear, and acromiohumeral distance (AHD).

Results

One year post-surgery, both the VAS pain scores, ASES scores, and ROM showed statistically significant improvement compared to before the surgery. Upon reviewing the radiological results, the AHD significantly improved from 4.3 ± 4.1 mm before surgery to 9.2 ± 1.9 mm at one year post-surgery (p < 0.001). Moreover, in the one year follow-up, there was no observed failure of the allodermis graft in any of the cases.

Conclusion

The combination of ABT and BAR demonstrated significantly improved clinical outcomes after surgery, showing a substantial increase in AHD and preventing graft failure effectively.

Mid- to long-term outcomes of latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This study aims to analyze the mid-to long-term results of the latissimus dorsi tendon for the treatment of massive posterosuperior irreparable rotator cuff tears as reported in high-quality publications and to determine its efficacy and safety.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases were searched until December 2022 to identify studies with a minimum 4 year follow-up. Clinical and radiographic outcomes, complications, and revision surgery data were collected. The publications included were analyzed quantitatively using the DerSimonian Laird random-effects model to estimate the change in outcomes from the preoperative to the postoperative condition. The proportion of complications and revisions were pooled using the Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation.

RESULTS

Of the 618 publications identified through database search, 11 articles were considered eligible. A total of 421 patients (432 shoulders) were included in this analysis. Their mean age was 59.5 ± 4 years. Of these, 277 patients had mid-term follow-up (4-9 years), and 144 had long-term follow-up (more than 9 years). Postoperative improvements were considered significant for the following outcome parameters: Constant-Murley Score (0-100 scale), with a mean difference (MD) = 28 points (95% confidence interval [CI] 21, 36; I2 = 89%; P < .001); visual analog scale, with a standardized MD = 2.5 (95% CI 1.7, 3.3; P < .001; I2 = 89%; P < .001); forward flexion, with a MD = 43° (95% CI 21°, 65°; I2 = 95% P < .001); abduction, with a MD = 38° (95% CI 20°, 56°; I2 = 85%; P < .01), and external rotation, with a MD = 8° (95% CI 1°, 16°; I2 = 87%; P = .005). The overall reported mean complication rate was 13% (95% CI 9%, 19%; I2 = 0%), while the reported mean revision rate was 6% (95% CI: 3%, 9%; I2 = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our pooled estimated results seem to indicate that latissimus dorsi tendon transfer significantly improves patient-reported outcomes, pain relief, range of motion, and strength, with modest rates of complications and revision surgery at mid-to long-term follow-up. In well-selected patients, latissimus dorsi tendon transfer may provide favorable outcomes for irreparable posterosuperior cuff tears.

Glenohumeral Superior Translation and Subacromial Contract Pressure Are Both Improved With Superior Capsular Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Biomechanical Investigations

PURPOSE

To review cadaveric studies evaluating the biomechanical outcomes of superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) with different graft types for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff (RTC) tears.

METHODS

PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase were queried in January 2022 to conduct this meta-analysis using the following key words: "superior capsule reconstruction," "superior capsular reconstruction," and "biomechanics." Articles were included if they reported glenohumeral superior translation or subacromial contact pressure following SCR in cadaveric RTC tears. The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses criteria. Number of shoulders, graft types, and biomechanical outcomes were recorded and analyzed with forest plots.

RESULTS

Twelve studies (95 shoulders) were included in the statistical analysis. There was a significant reduction in glenohumeral superior translation following SCR compared with RTC tear across 10 studies (79 shoulders) with standardized mean difference (SMD) -2.48 mm; confidence interval (CI) -3.28 mm, -1.69 mm. The SMD between fascia lata graft and RTC tear was -3.84 mm (CI -4.82 mm, -2.86 mm) and between dermal allograft and RTC tear was -2.05 mm (CI -3.10 mm, -1.00 mm). There was a significant reduction in subacromial contact pressure following SCR compared with RTC tear across 5 studies (55 shoulders) with SMD -3.49 MPa (CI -4.54 MPa, -2.44 MPa). The SMD between fascia lata graft and RTC tear was -3.21 MPa (CI -5.08 MPa, -1.34 MPa) and between dermal allograft and RTC tear was -3.89 MPa (CI -5.91 MPa, -1.87 MPa).

CONCLUSIONS

Independent of graft type, biomechanical studies suggest that SCR improves glenohumeral superior translation and subacromial contact pressure in comparison with RTC tear at time zero. There was no definitive evidence identified in this study to suggest a biomechanically superior SCR graft option.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Investigating the biomechanical outcomes of several graft types for superior capsular reconstruction will help surgeons better understand the efficacies of different graft types for use in superior capsule reconstruction surgery.

Pseudoparesis and pseudoparalysis in the setting of massive irreparable rotator cuff tear: demographic, anatomic, and radiographic risk factors

BACKGROUND

The primary purpose of this study was to identify demographic, anatomic, and radiographic risk factors for active forward elevation (AFE) <90° in the setting of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tear (miRCT). The secondary purpose was to identify characteristics differentiating between patients with pseudoparalysis (AFE <45°) and pseudoparesis (AFE >45° but <90°).

METHODS

This was a retrospective case-control study reviewing patients with miRCTs at a single institution between January 12, 2016 and November 26, 2020. Patients were separated into 2 cohorts based on presence or absence of preoperative AFE <90° with maintained passive range of motion. Demographics, RCT pattern, and radiographic parameters were assessed as risk factors for AFE <90°. A secondary analysis was conducted to compare patients with pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis.

RESULTS

There were 79 patients in the AFE <90° cohort and 50 patients in the control cohort. Univariate analysis confirmed significant differences between the AFE <90° and control cohort in age (71.9 ± 11.0 vs. 65.9 ± 9.1 years), arthritis severity (34.2% vs. 16.0% grade 3 Samilson-Prieto), acromiohumeral distance (AHD; 4.8 ± 2.7 vs. 7.6 ± 2.6 mm), fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus (3.3 ± 0.9 vs. 2.8 ± 0.8) and subscapularis (2.0 ± 1.2 vs. 1.5 ± 1.0), and proportion of subscapularis tears (55.7% vs. 34.0%). On multivariate analysis, age (odds ratio [OR] 1.08, P = .014), decreased AHD (OR 0.67, P < .001), severe arthritis (OR 2.84, P = .041), and subscapularis tear (OR 6.29, P = .015) were independent factors predictive of AFE <90°. Secondary analysis revealed tobacco use (OR 3.54, P = .026) and grade 4 fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus (OR 2.22, P = .015) and subscapularis (OR 3.12, P = .042) as significant predictors for pseudoparalysis compared to pseudoparesis.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with miRCT, increased age, decreased AHD, severe arthritis, and subscapularis tear are associated with AFE <90°. Furthermore, patients with AFE <90° tend to have greater supraspinatus and subscapularis fatty infiltration. Lastly, among patients with AFE <90°, tobacco use and grade 4 fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus and subscapularis are associated with pseudoparalysis compared with pseudoparesis.

Clinical outcomes and temporal changes in the range of motion following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is a definitive solution for the treatment of massive rotator cuff tear and shoulder pseudoparalysis since it can improve shoulder function, especially in elderly individuals. For many elderly individuals, the concern is when they can return to their daily lives after surgery. This study aimed to clarify the characteristics of temporal postoperative values following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty and investigate the factors that affect clinical outcomes.

METHODS

This study included 52 patients (mean 79.2 years, range 70-87 years) who underwent primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for shoulder pseudoparalysis at a single institution by a single surgeon using the same implant between October 2014 and June 2019. We divided 52 patient into the following groups (1) female (n = 34)vs. male (n = 18) patients; (2) with (n = 19) vs. without (n = 33) arthritic changes in glenohumeral joints (Hamada grade 2, 3 vs. 4, 5); (3) with (n = 23) vs. without (n = 29) subscapularis tendon repair; and investigated the temporal changes in the range of motion (flexion, abduction, external rotation, and internal rotation) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed in postoperative shoulder flexion (P = .046) and abduction (P = .049) between the female and male groups. The male patients were able to obtain quick functional recovery. However, no significant differences were observed in postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, and the shoulder range of motion between patients with Hamada grade 2, 3 and 4, 5, and between the subscapularis repair and no repair groups.

CONCLUSION

The factor that affected the final and temporal values of range of motion after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty was sex, rather than the arthritic changes in glenohumeral joint and the treatment of the subscapularis tendon.

Minimal inter-surgeon agreement on the diagnosis of pseudoparalysis in patients with massive rotator cuff tears

BACKGROUND

Pseudoparalysis is commonly used to describe patients with severe loss of active elevation associated with advanced rotator cuff disease, but its definition in the literature has been variable. This study aimed to determine how 15 expert shoulder surgeons use the term "pseudoparalysis" when presented with clinical cases and assess clinical agreement on the diagnosis of pseudoparalysis.

METHODS

Fifteen expert shoulder surgeons were surveyed regarding 18 patients with magnetic resonance imaging-diagnosed massive rotator cuff tears, restricted active range of motion (ROM), full passive ROM, and without advanced rotator cuff arthropathy (Hamada grade <3). The survey included 18 patient vignettes with key clinical details and a deidentified video demonstrating the physical examination of the patient. For all patients, surgeons were instructed to assume that the patient has a full passive ROM. An anteroposterior radiograph and T2 sequences of the patient's coronal, axial, and sagittal magnetic resonance imaging were also provided. After each case, the surgeons were asked: (1) does the patient have pseudoparalysis, and (2) if so, how severe it is. At the end of the patient vignettes, surgeons were asked to define pseudoparalysis using a checklist with predefined options. Surgeons were also asked if there was a difference between the term pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis. Fleiss' kappa (κ) correlation coefficient was used to determine intersurgeon agreement.

RESULTS

There was minimal inter-rater agreement on the diagnosis of pseudoparalysis (κ = 0.360) and no agreement on describing the severity of pseudoparalysis (κ = -0.057). Although 80% of surgeons stated that an active glenohumeral elevation less than 90° was a diagnostic feature of pseudoparalysis, there was disagreement on the remaining criteria, leading to no agreement on a set of universal criteria that defines pseudoparalysis. A total of 67% included maintained full passive elevation, 33% included the absence of pain, 67% included elevation causing anterosuperior escape, and 27% included an additional unlisted factor. There was minimal agreement among the 15 surgeons on the diagnostic criteria of pseudoparalysis (κ = 0.092). Finally, 7 surgeons stated that pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis are identical, whereas 8 surgeons stated that they are 2 different clinical diagnoses.

CONCLUSION

Among this panel of expert shoulder surgeons, there was a lack of consensus on the definition of pseudoparalysis and minimal agreement on the diagnosis of pseudoparalysis based on clinical scenarios. In addition, half the surgeons believed that pseudoparalysis and pseudoparesis are identical, whereas the other half believed that they represent 2 separate clinical entities. A standardized definition of pseudoparalysis would be of value to facilitate communication and research efforts.

Massive and Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: A Review of Current Definitions and Concepts

Background

While massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) have been abundantly studied, inconsistent definitions in the literature and theories about pain and dysfunction related to them can be difficult to navigate when considering an individual patient.

Purpose

To review the current literature for definitions and critical concepts that drive decision-making for MIRCTs.

Study Design

Narrative review.

Methods

A search of the PubMed database was performed to conduct a comprehensive literature review on MIRCTs. A total of 97 studies were included.

Results

Recent literature reflects added attention to clarifying the definitions of "massive, "irreparable," and "pseudoparalysis." In addition, numerous recent studies have added to the understanding of what generates pain and dysfunction from this condition and have reported on new techniques for addressing them.

Conclusion

The current literature provides a nuanced set of definitions and conceptual foundations on MIRCTs. These can be used to better define these complex conditions in patients when comparing current surgical techniques to address MIRCTs, as well as when interpreting the results of new techniques. While the number of effective treatment options has increased, high-quality and comparative evidence on treatments for MIRCTs is lacking.

Allograft-enhanced latissimus dorsi transfer is better than the conventional technique for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. A retrospective matched cohort

PURPOSE

Latissimus dorsi tendon (LDT) transfer (LDTT) to the greater tuberosity to treat irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCTs) in young active patients has been shown to have up to 36% of clinical failures, most of them happening because of either deltoid origin disruption or post-operative transfer rupture from the greater tuberosity. In an attempt to simultaneously prevent both complications, a modified technique includes the following adaptations to the original technique: reinforcement and augmentation of the LDT with a tendinous allograft, enabling the use of a single deltopectoral approach. The aim of this study is to compare mid-term outcomes of the traditional LDTT technique with this modified transfer.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study comparing two groups who underwent either the traditional (group 1; n = 19) or the modified technique (group 2; n = 27). Group homogenization was assured by statistical comparison of 24 baseline independent variables. The outcome variables were the gains to active shoulder range of motions (ROM) and UCLA scores (and all its subscores, independently), at a minimum follow-up of two years. A p value < .05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up of 25 months, both groups have shown improvements to most variables. However, group two (modified technique) achieved greater improvements to UCLA score (p = .009), active external rotation (p = .006) and internal rotation (p = .008).

CONCLUSION

At mid-term follow-up, improvements to outcomes of the modified (single approach, allograft-enhanced) latissimus dorsi transfer were greater than those of the original technique.

Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Which Patients Will Benefit from Physiotherapy Exercise Programs? A Narrative Review

Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears can cause significant shoulder pain, disability and reduction in quality of life. Treatment approaches can be operative or non-operative. Operative approaches include reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, arthroscopic debridement, partial rotator cuff repair, subacromial balloon spacers, superior capsule reconstruction, and tendon transfer procedures. Non-operative approaches include physiotherapy exercise programs and corticosteroid injections. There are no randomized controlled trials comparing the different treatment approaches. It is therefore challenging for clinicians to advise patients on what is their best treatment pathway. Physiotherapy exercise programs are less expensive and have lower risks for patients than surgical approaches. However, the success of physiotherapy in patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears is highly variable with published success rates of 32-96%. Several cohort studies have sought to identify if certain factors are predictive of success with physiotherapy. Several biomechanical factors were identified as possibly being related to a successful or unsuccessful outcome following physiotherapy, with complete tear of subscapularis demonstrating the strongest evidence. However, there were no appropriately designed prognostic studies. There has been a strong emphasis on biomechanical factors. Other domains such as psychosocial factors, which are important in similar patient populations, have not been explored. We recommend that further research is needed in this area and should include randomized controlled trials comparing treatment approaches and longitudinal prospective prognostic studies to identify predictors of treatment success.

Functional results and unfavorable events after treatment of proximal humerus fractures using a new locking plate system

BACKGROUND

Proximal humerus fractures are often treated with a fixed-angle titanium plate osteosynthesis. Recently, plates made of alternative materials such as carbon fibre-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK) have been introduced. This study presents the postoperative results of patients treated with a CFR-PEEK plate.

METHODS

Patients with proximal humerus fractures treated with a CFR-PEEK plate (PEEKPower™ Humeral Fracture Plate (HFP)) were included. In follow-up examination, age and gender adjusted Constant-Murley Score (ACS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (QDASH) and pain score (Visual Analog Scale (VAS)) were analyzed. General condition at follow-up was measured by European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level Version (EQ-5D-3L). Range of motion was recorded. In addition, radiographs at follow-up, unfavorable events and revision rate were analyzed.

RESULTS

In total, 98 patients (66.0 ± 13.2 years, 74 females, 24 males) were reexamined. Mean follow-up was 27.6 ± 13.2 months. There were 15 2-part, 28 3-part and 55 4-part fractures. The functional scores showed good results: SSV 83.3 ± 15.6%, QDASH 13.1 ± 17.0 and ACS 80.4 ± 16.0. A 4-part-fracture, head split component, nonanatomic head shaft reposition and preoperative radiological signs of osteoarthritis were significant negative predictors for poorer clinical scores. Unfavourable events were observed in 27 patients (27.6%). Revision surgery was performed in 8 (8.2%) patients. Risk factors for an unfavourable event were female gender, age of 50 years and older, diabetes, affected dominant hand, 4-part fracture, head split and preoperative radiological signs of osteoarthritis.

CONCLUSION

There are several advantages of the CFR-PEEK plate (PEEKPower™ Humeral Fracture Plate (HFP)) such as the polyaxial screw placement and higher stability of locking screws. In summary, the CFR-PEEK plate osteosynthesis is a good alternative with comparable clinical results and some biomechanical advantages. Proximal humerus fractures show good clinical results after treatment with a CFR-PEEK plate. The revision rate and the risk of unfavorable events are not increased compared to conventional titanium plate osteosynthesis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Clinical and Functional Outcomes by Graft Type in Superior Capsular Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In recent years, superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) has emerged as a promising treatment for massive rotator cuff tears and has been performed with an array of graft options, most commonly dermal allograft and tensor fascia lata (TFL) autograft.

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical outcomes, functional outcomes, and complication rates after SCR performed with dermal allograft, TFL autograft, long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) autograft, and porcine xenograft.

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase were systematically reviewed for studies that enrolled ≥10 patients who underwent SCR and presented clinical outcome data at a minimum follow-up of 12 months. When available, pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcome scores and clinical examination data were extracted. Outcome data were then compared by graft type. A meta-analysis was also conducted of graft tear and reoperation rates after SCR with dermal allograft and TFL autograft.

RESULTS

Human dermal allograft and TFL autograft were each utilized in 7 studies, LHBT autograft in 2 studies, and porcine xenograft in 1 study. Dermal allograft, TFL autograft, and LHBT autograft demonstrated comparable median (range) postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores of 85.3 (77.5-89), 88.6 (73.7-94.3), and 82.7 (80-85.4), respectively. The median postoperative pain scores per visual analog scale for dermal allograft, TFL autograft, and LHBT autograft were 0.8, 2.5, and 1.4. Median postoperative forward elevation was 159.0°, 147.0°, 163.8°, and 151.4° for dermal allograft, TFL autograft, LHBT autograft, and porcine xenograft. Meta-analysis demonstrated a comparable pooled graft tear rate between TFL autograft (9%; 95% CI, 4%-16%) and dermal allograft (7%; 95% CI, 2%-13%). Similarly, the pooled reoperation rate was similar for TFL autograft (3%; 95% CI, 0%-7%) and dermal allograft (6%; 95% CI, 2%-12%). Among the 3 studies with pre- and postoperative information on pseudoparalysis, 73 of 76 (96%) patients with an intact/repairable subscapularis had a reversal of their pseudoparalysis after SCR.

CONCLUSION

Dermal allograft, TFL autograft, and LHBT autograft are all suitable options for SCR and demonstrate significant improvements in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, pain score per visual analog scale, and forward elevation. Moreover, dermal allograft and TFL autograft have comparable rates of graft tear and reoperation.

The effect of postoperative sling immobilization and early mobilization on clinical and functional outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: A propensity score-matched analysis

BACKROUND

Optimal postoperative management is controversial after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate outcomes of patients with and without postoperative sling immobilization after undergoing arthroscopic RCR rotator cuff repair.

METHOD

369 arthroscopic full thickness superior rotator cuff tears (RCT) with a minimum follow-up of 6 months were included in this study. Propensity score matching was performed for age, sex, BMI, and tear size. Pain (VAS score), shoulder range of motion (ROM), functional outcome (ASES, Constant-Murley [CM] and Oxford shoulder score [OSS]), and health related quality of life (SF-36) scores were compared between patients with and without sling immobilization.

RESULTS

According to the propensity match score, 92 patients (50 sling immobilization and 42 no sling immobilization) were matched to be almost identical in age (62.5 ± 8.0 vs. 61.8 ± 5.9), sex (female 78% vs. 76.2%), BMI (28.1 ± 2.8 vs. 27.8 ± 2.6), and tear size (2.7 ± 1.1 vs. 2.9 ± 0.8). The postoperative physical functioning domain of SF-36 scores was found to be significantly higher in the no sling group (p= 0.034).

CONCLUSION

Early mobilization after arthroscopic small and medium sized full thickness superior rotator cuff repair is associated with improved ROM and quality of life scores.

Recurrence of glenohumeral instability in patients with isolated rotator cuff repair after a traumatic shoulder dislocation

INTRODUCTION

The primary objective of this study was to assess the incidence of recurrent glenohumeral instability in patients over 40 years with isolated rotator cuff (RC) repair for traumatic shoulder dislocation. The secondary objectives were to identify risk factors for glenohumeral recurrence after RC repair and to describe the causes and incidences of re-intervention.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, data of consecutive patients at a single trauma center between January 2014 and July 2019 were reviewed, and 84 patients with a mean age of 57 (range: 40-75) years and follow-up duration of 3.9 (2-6) years were included. The inclusion criteria were as follows: first traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation, reparable RC tear, primary arthroscopic RC repair, no labral or bony Bankart lesion repair, and at least 2 years of follow-up. Patients less than 40 years of age were excluded. Shoulder instability recurrences and surgical reinterventions were reviewed with medical records. Statistical analysis was performed for qualitative variables using the Chi-squared test. Statistical significance was set at P ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

There was one patient with a redislocation episode (1.2%) at 2.5 years after surgery, who was surgically treated. Age, subscapular tears, bony Bankart injuries, humeral defects, and associated neurological injuries were not risk factors for recurrence in this study. Ten patients (11.9%) required reintervention. Nine patients (10.7%) re-tore their RCs.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent glenohumeral instability in active patients over 40 years with isolated RC repair after traumatic shoulder dislocation was infrequent, despite the incidence of significant Hill-Sachs defects, anterior glenoid defects, bipolar bone defects, size of the RC injury, and tendon re-tears. The incidence of re-interventions was 11.9%, with symptomatic RC retear as the main cause.

The Association Between the Rotator Cuff Status and the Severity and Recovery of Weakness in the Shoulder Abductor Strength in a Case of Proximal Type Cervical Spondylotic Amyotrophy

STUDY DESIGN

Case series study.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to clarify the prevalence of rotator cuff tear (RCT), and the association between RCT and the severity and prognosis in patients with proximal type cervical spondylotic amyotrophy (CSA).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 35 proximal type CSA patients who were treated conservatively. The following data was collected: age, rotator cuff status on MRI, manual muscle test (MMT) score of shoulder abductor and biceps brachii muscles both at the first visit and final follow-up. We investigated the prevalence of RCT and the association between the rotator cuff status, and the severity and recovery of upper extremity weakness in patients with proximal type CSA.

RESULTS

Of the 35 patients, 21 had an RCT on MRI, indicating that the prevalence of RCT in patients with proximal type CSA was 60%. An age-adjusted analysis showed that the presence of RCT was significantly associated with the MMT score of the shoulder abductor muscles both at the first visit and at the final follow-up. The presence of RCT was significantly associated with the recovery of the shoulder abductor muscles. The size of the RCT was negatively correlated with the MMT score of the shoulder abductor muscles at the final follow-up. The size of the RCT was independently correlated with the change of the MMT score of the shoulder abductor muscles.

CONCLUSION

RCT was detected in >50% in patients with proximal type CSA, and the presence and severity of RCT can be used as prognostic factors for proximal type CSA patients who are treated conservatively.

Evaluation of the Clinical Outcomes of the Arthroscopic Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tears Using the Modified Suture Bridge Technique

Objective  To evaluate the postoperative clinical outcomes of the arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff injuries using a suture configuration we have developed based on a modification of the Suture Bridge (Arthrex, Naples, FL, United States). Methods  A retrospective study with 28 male (41.2%) and 40 female (58.8%) subjects with a mean age of 60 years. All patients underwent rotator cuff repair with the modified Suture Bridge technique and follow-up for a minimum period of 18 months. The clinical assessment was performed using the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score. Results  The mean postoperative range of motion was of 134° (range: 110° to 140°) for elevation, 58° (range: 40° to 70°) for lateral rotation, and T10 (range: L4 to T7) for medial rotation. The mean increase was of 15° for elevation, 14° for lateral rotation, and 2 vertebral levels for medial rotation. The outcomes were excellent in 61 (83.6%) cases, good in 8 (10.9%), and regular in 4 cases (5.5%). Conclusion  The modified Suture Bridge technique for the arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff injuries led to excellent or good postoperative clinical outcomes in most cases (69; 94.5%).

Recall Bias in Retrospective Assessment of Preoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Scores After Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

Although reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has been shown to be effective for the treatment of cuff tear arthropathy (CTA), the patient's inability to accurately recall their preoperative shoulder condition could skew their perception of the effectiveness of the procedure. Identifying patients who are susceptible to notable recall bias before surgery can help surgeons counsel patients regarding expectations after surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether patients who undergo RTSA are susceptible to recall bias and, if so, which factors are associated with poor recollection.

METHODS

Patients who underwent RTSA for CTA by the senior author between September 2016 and September 2018 were identified. All patients completed the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES scores) Standardized Assessment Form at the time of preoperative assessment. Patients were contacted at a minimum of 24 months after surgery to retrospectively assess their preoperative condition.

RESULTS

A total of 72 patients with a mean age of 72.2 ± 7.65 years completed a retrospective shoulder assessment at 28.3 ± 7.3 months postoperatively. Patient assessment of shoulder condition showed poor reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.453, confidence interval, 0.237-0.623). Greater preoperative shoulder ASES scores were associated with a greater difference between preoperative ASES scores and recall ASES scores (β = 0.275, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Patients who undergo RTSA for CTA are susceptible to clinically significant recall bias. Patients with better preoperative condition recall worse preoperative shoulder conditions compared with patients with worse preoperative conditions and are susceptible to a higher degree of recall bias. This patient population should be identified preoperatively and have notable counseling before and after surgery to help them better understand their disease burden and what to expect after surgical intervention.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, diagnostic cohort study.

Mid-term outcomes after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with latissimus dorsi transfer

Background

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is a common treatment for patients with rotator cuff arthropathy who have failed a prior rotator cuff repair. Latissimus dorsi transfer can be performed simultaneously to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for patients with preoperative external rotation deficiency. Current literature is limited with several studies providing functional and pain improvements at short-term follow-up; however, there is a deficit in data regarding mid-term outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with latissimus dorsi transfer with mid-term follow-up. We hypothesized significant improvement in external rotation and shoulder functionality for patients with preoperative external rotation lag.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with latissimus dorsi transfer. Preoperative and postoperative changes in range of motion were assessed. American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon Score and the Simple Shoulder Test were used to evaluate changes in shoulder function while pain scores were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Radiographs were reviewed for rotator cuff arthropathy, fatty infiltration, scapular notching, baseplate loosening, and osteolysis. We reported frequency and mean ± standard deviation for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Means were compared using the paired Student's t-test and proportions using the Chi-square test.

Results

Fifteen patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of the cohort was 71.7 ± 8.4 years (range 51.2-87.8 years) with a mean follow-up of 6.3 ± 4.1 years (range 1.0-14.5 years). Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with latissimus dorsi transfer improved external rotation (-7 ± 21.3° to 38 ± 15.8°; p value = 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference regarding forward flexion (116.3 ± 45.4° to 133.7 ± 14.7°; p value = 0.17) and internal rotation (T12 to L2; p value = 0.57). The procedure led to an increase in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon Score scores (37 ± 19 to 62 ± 22; p = 0.005) and Simple Shoulder Test scores (2 ± 2 to 6 ± 3; p value = 0.001) with a significant reduction in Visual Analog Scale scores (5 ± 3 to 2 ± 3; p value = 0.022). The procedure corrected external rotation lag in 10 patients. Radiographically, rotator cuff arthropathy was found to be grade 3 in two patients, grade 4 A in four patients, grade 4B in eight patients, and grade 5 in one patient. On postoperative imaging, scapular notching was found in six patients (40%). Twelve patients had cortical humeral erosion at the site of the latissimus dorsi transfer. Only one patient experienced a shoulder-related complication which was aseptic baseplate loosening and required a revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with allograft.

Conclusions

In this study, patients undergoing reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with latissimus dorsi transfer experienced improvements in range of motion, functional scores, and pain at mid-term follow-up. The shoulder-related complication rate was low.Level of evidence: IV; Case series.

Pseudoparalysis and Acromiohumeral Interval Reversibility Are the Most Important Factors Affecting the Achievement of Patient-Acceptable Symptom State After Arthroscopic-Assisted Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer

PURPOSE

To determine the patient-acceptable symptom state (PASS) values for American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and the Constant-Murley (CM) score after arthroscopic-assisted latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDTT) and to identify potential factors affecting the achievement of PASS.

METHODS

Fifty consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic-assisted LDTT between 2015 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. In total, 42 patients met the inclusion criteria with minimum follow-up of 1 year postoperative. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and 1-year postoperatively with multiple clinical measurements including ASES, CM, score and PASS. The primary outcome was identified as patient satisfaction which assessed with achievement of a PASS. Potential factors affecting the patient satisfaction including age, sex, body mass index, previous surgery, presence of pseudoparalysis, critical shoulder angle, shoulder abduction moment index, acromiohumeral interval (AHI) reversibility, Hamada grade and fatty infiltration were evaluated for their association with PASS value by stepwise logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients were evaluated with mean follow-up 27.8 ± 8.21 months. The ASES and CM scores improved from preoperative means of 21.6 ± 6.5 and 25.2 ± 8.5 to 65.6 ± 20.7 points and 56.8 ± 16.5 points, respectively (P < .001). The PASS values for the ASES and CM scores were 62.4 and 52.5, respectively. The univariate analysis showed that older age (P = .021), presence of pseudoparalysis (P < .001), previous surgery (P = .016), lower preoperative AHI (P = .028), and lower AHI reversibility (P < .001) were all significantly associated with worse patient satisfaction. The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that pseudoparalysis (P = .038) and AHI reversibility (P = .021) were independent prognostic factors affecting the achievement of a PASS after arthroscopic-assisted LDTT. The cutoff value for AHI reversibility to predict an achievement of PASS was found to be 4.0 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic-assisted LDTT led to satisfactory results in patients with massive rotator cuff tears. However, pseudoparalysis and AHI reversibility were the most important independent prognostic factors that consistently reduced and increased, respectively, the odds of achieving a PASS.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, retrospective case series.

Infraspinatus Muscle Fiber Moment Arms During Abduction: A Biomechanical Comparison of Values for Intact Rotator Cuff, Supraspinatus Tear, Superior Capsular Reconstruction, and Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

Background:

Lines of action of the superior, middle, and inferior infraspinatus muscle fibers work together to produce moment arms that change throughout abduction in an intact shoulder, after a supraspinatus tear, and after superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA).

Purpose:

To use moment arm values to indicate the efficacy of SCR and rTSA to restore infraspinatus function during shoulder abduction.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 5 human cadaveric shoulders placed in a testing apparatus were each actively abducted (0°-90°) under the following 4 conditions: intact, complete supraspinatus tear, SCR, and rTSA. The 3-dimensional coordinates of points were tracked along the origin and insertion of the superior, middle, and inferior infraspinatus fibers during abduction. Moment arm values were calculated using the origin-insertion method to determine abduction contribution of infraspinatus fiber sections. Analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey testing were used to compare differences in moment arms between the 4 conditions and between fiber sections.

Results:

In the intact condition, the superior infraspinatus fibers had an abduction moment that decreased with elevation until shifting to adduction. Conversely, the middle and inferior fibers had an adduction moment that turned to abduction (mean moment arm values from 0° to 90°: inferior, from –5.9 to 19.4 mm; middle, from –4.7 to 15.9 mm; superior, from 5.6 to –5.1 mm; P < .05). After a supraspinatus tear, superior fibers lacked any torque, and inferior and middle fibers lost adduction potential (inferior, from 4.8 to 14.0 mm; middle, from –0.2 to 9.6 mm; superior, from 1.0 to 0.7 mm; P < .05). SCR restored the initial superior fiber abduction moment (5.6 mm at 0°; P < .05); middle and inferior fibers had some restoration but were weaker than intact fibers. Loss of abduction moment in all fibers was seen with rTSA (inferior, from –9.6 to –1.6 mm; middle, from –10.5 to –3.6 mm; superior, from –1.7 to –4.6 mm; P < .05).

Conclusion:

Infraspinatus fiber groups had different and inverse moment arms during scapular plane elevation. SCR most closely resembled the intact shoulder, whereas rTSA transformed the infraspinatus into an adductor.

Clinical Relevance:

These results support the efficacy of SCR at restoring biomechanical muscle function and suggest that the changes in moment arms for each fiber group be considered when choosing treatment modalities and rehabilitation protocols after rotator cuff tear.

Medialized vs. lateralized humeral implant in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty: the comparison of outcomes in pseudoparalysis with massive rotator cuff tear

BACKGROUND

With the increasing use of lateralized humeral implants in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA), it is still unclear whether this design will be as advantageous as the medialized humeral implants in the setting of pseudoparalysis (PP).

METHODS

A total of 51 eligible RTSA cases for PP signs due to massive rotator cuff deficiency were selected for the retrospective review. Twenty-five patients were allocated to group L in which the isolated humeral side lateralization was performed (neck-shaft angle of 145°), and 26 patients were allocated to group M (neck-shaft angle of 155°). Pre- and postoperative radiologic measurements including critical shoulder angle, acromiohumeral distance (AHD), lateral humeral offset (LHO), and deltoid wrapping offset (DWO), as well as range of motion (ROM) and clinical outcome scores, were compared. The mean age was 71.0 ± 6.5 years for group L and 70.3 ± 7.0 years for group M, and the overall mean follow-up period was 49.0 ± 13.5 months (range, 25.7-68.9).

RESULTS

The preoperative radiologic measurements were similar, but the postoperative LHO and DWO were significantly larger for group L, whereas the postoperative AHD was larger for group M compared with group L, with the values being 39.8 ± 9.7 mm and 33.6 ± 10.4 mm, respectively (P = .034). For the ROM, active forward elevation did improve significantly for both, starting preoperatively with the active ranges of 39° ± 19° (passively 153° ± 24°) for group L and 42° ± 18° (passively 156° ± 11°) for group M-the final postoperative active ranges being 142° ± 16° and 133° ± 33°, respectively, without significant difference between the groups (P = .426). The postoperative recovery of PP for group L was 100% (25 of 25), whereas for group M, it was 96.2% (25 of 26). The final visual analog scale (VAS) scores and University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder scores improved significantly for both groups, but the differences between the groups at the final assessments were insignificant. The 4 complications were periprosthetic fracture, acromial stress fracture, periprosthetic joint infection, and neuropraxia, all of which were in group M, and scapular notching with higher grades were more prevalent for group M (26.9%, 7 of 26).

CONCLUSIONS

With RTSA, good outcomes and recovery were achieved in most cases of PP. The postoperative active elevation range and functional outcomes were not affected by medialization or lateralization of the humeral implant. Earlier recovery of motion was observed with the lateralized group, but no significant differences were seen in the final ROM between the groups.

Arthroscopic debridement for management of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears: a systematic review of outcomes

Background

Surgical management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears remains controversial. Arthroscopic debridement (AD) has shown promising results especially in the population older than 65 years; however, there is no consensus on the benefits of various AD procedures. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the functional midterm to long-term outcomes in patients treated with AD in combination with subacromial decompression, biceps tenotomy, tuberoplasty, or bursectomy, without repair of the rotator cuff tear.

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Cochrane databases for studies reporting clinical outcomes of AD of massive rotator cuff tears. Quality was determined using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) criteria by two independent reviewers. Pooled frequency-weighted means and standard deviations were calculated for patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Sixteen articles containing 643 patients and 662 shoulders met the eligibility criteria. The mean age at the time of surgery was 65.9 ± 4.4 years with a mean follow-up period of 46.5 ± 27.3 months. There was notable clinically significant improvement across all patient-reported outcome scores postoperatively: Constant 70.4 ± 8.9 (P value = .06), University of California, Los Angeles ultrasonography 26.7 ± 5.2 (P value = .001), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score 71.7 ± 2.1 (P value = .12), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score 35.3, and visual analog score 1.7 ± 0.9. Forty-nine patients (7%) required reoperation, which most commonly was a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for the development of rotator cuff arthropathy.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic debridement with a combination of subacromial decompression, tuberoplasty, subacromial bursectomy, and biceps tenotomy, for treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, produces good functional outcomes and improvement in pain at mid to long term follow up for the low-demand population greater than 65 years of age looking for pain relief over substantial increase in function.

Bursal Acromial Reconstruction (BAR) Using an Acellular Dermal Allograft for Massive, Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears: A Dynamic Biomechanical Investigation

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of bursal acromial reconstruction (BAR) using an acellular dermal allograft on glenohumeral joint kinematics including maximum abduction angle, glenohumeral superior translation, cumulative deltoid force, and subacromial contact pressure.

METHODS

In this dynamic biomechanical cadaveric shoulder study, 8 fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders (age 53.4 ± 14.2 years, mean ± standard deviation) were tested using a dynamic shoulder testing system. Maximum abduction angle (MAA), glenohumeral superior translation (ghST), maximum cumulative deltoid force (cDF), and subacromial peak contact pressure (sCP) were compared across 3 conditions: (1) intact shoulder; (2) massive retracted irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear (psRCT) according to Patte III; and (3) BAR. Additionally, humeral head containment was measured using contact pressure.

RESULTS

Compared with the simulated psRCT, BAR significantly increased mean MAA and significantly decreased ghST (P < .001, respectively) and cDF (P = .017) Additionally, BAR was found to significantly decrease sCP compared with psRCT (P = .024).

CONCLUSION

In a dynamic biomechanical cadaveric shoulder simulator, resurfacing the undersurface of the acromion using the BAR technique leads to significantly improved ghST, MAA, cDF, and sCP compared with the irreparable rotator cuff tear.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

With the BAR technique, native humeral containment may be restored, which can potentially delay progressive subacromial and glenoidal abrasive wear and improve overall shoulder function. As such, the proposed BAR technique can be considered as a technically feasible and potentially cost- and timesaving procedure, as no bone anchors are needed, glenoidal or humeral side graft ruptures can be avoided, and postoperative rehabilitation can be started immediately. However, future clinical studies are needed.

Risk Factors for Loss of Active Shoulder Range of Motion in Massive Rotator Cuff Tears

Background:

Patients with massive rotator cuff tears often exhibit loss of active range of shoulder motion, which can interfere with activities of daily living. The risk factors for loss of motion remain largely unknown.

Purpose:

To clarify the predictive factors that affect the range of motion in chronic massive rotator cuff tears using multivariate analyses.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The authors retrospectively reviewed 204 consecutive patients who were evaluated at their institution with chronic massive rotator cuff tears. In this study, the dependent variable was determined to be active anterior elevation limited to ≤90° or external rotation (ER) with the arm at the side limited to ≤0°. Explanatory variables included age; sex; affected side; duration of symptoms; smoking history; existence of diabetes, hypertension, or rheumatoid arthritis; involved tendons; presence of a 3-tendon tear; rupture of the long head of biceps tendon; superior migration of the humeral head; and cuff tear arthropathy. Baseline variables that were observed to be significant in the univariate analyses were included in multivariate models, which used logistic regression to identify independent predictors of loss of motion.

Results:

Overall, 73 patients (35.8%) exhibited limited anterior elevation, and 27 (13.2%) exhibited limited ER. Multivariate analyses showed that inferior subscapularis tear (odds ratio [OR], 14.66; 95% CI, 2.95-72.93; P = .001), smoking (OR, 4.13; 95% CI, 1.94-8.79; P < .001), superior migration of humeral head (OR, 3.92; 95% CI, 1.80-8.53; P = .001), and 3-tendon tear (OR, 3.29; 95% CI, 1.32-8.20; P = .011) were significantly associated with the loss of anterior elevation. Teres minor tear (OR, 73.37; 95% CI, 9.54-564.28; P < .001) and superior migration of the humeral head (OR, 3.55; 95% CI, 1.04-12.19; P = .044) were significantly associated with loss of ER.

Conclusion:

In the current study, a history of smoking, type of torn tendons, and superior migration of the humeral head were associated with loss of active shoulder motion. In particular, the status of inferior subscapularis or teres minor contributed to the onset of pseudoparalysis in massive rotator cuff tears.

The Arthroscopic Intra-Articular Stabilization of the Shoulder for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tear: A New Technique Proposal

Background: Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) has shown good results in the management of irreparable rotator cuff tears due to the depressive effect on the humeral head, but it is a technically demanding and expensive procedure.

Purpose: We hypothesized that an intra-articular neoligament that prevents the superior translation of the humeral head could give similar results in terms of the superior translation of humerus (STH) and range of motion (ROM).

Study Design: To compare our proposed technique and the SCR, we conducted a biomechanical study on 10 porcine shoulders in a custom shoulder testing system.

Methods: STH and total rotational ROM were quantified in the following four scenarios: (1) when the rotator cuff was intact, (2) after cutting the supraspinatus tendon, (3) after the reconstruction of the superior capsule by long head of the biceps tendon (LHB), and (4) after an arthroscopic intra-articular stabilization by an intra-articular graft. Our proposed technique provides the creation of a humeral and glenoid tunnel, the passage of a graft through these tunnels under arthroscopic guidance, and the graft fixation in the two tunnels. We analyzed the STH and total ROM in each scenario.

Results: With respect to the STH, we reported that the present proposed technique is characterized by a significant reduction of superior translation at 0 and 45° compared to scenario 2. In addition, the comparison between our proposed technique and SCR showed a significant difference of the STH at 0° of abduction. Total rotational ROMs of the two tenchinques were similar to scenario 2. Therefore, the use of an intra-articular ligament that prevents the STH can restore shoulder stability in irreparable rotator cuff injuries at both 0 and 45° of glenohumeral abduction without apparently limiting the total rotational ROM.

Conclusion: Our proposed technique could be an important treatment option in irreparable rotator cuff tears, especially in patients under 65 years in whom reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has shown poor results and many complications.

Does preoperative disease severity influence outcomes in reverse shoulder arthroplasty for cuff tear arthropathy?

BACKGROUND

The degree of symptomatic disease and functional burden has been demonstrated to influence patient results and satisfaction in total hip and knee arthroplasty. Although the relationship between preoperative diagnosis and patient outcomes has been an area of study for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA), the influence of the progression of cuff tear arthropathy (CTA) has not yet been examined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether preoperative radiographic disease burden and scapular geometry impact patient outcomes and satisfaction in a cohort of patients with CTA treated with RTSA.

METHODS

Eighty-six patients were treated for CTA with RTSA performed by the senior author (B.G.) between September 2016 and September 2018 and were enrolled in an institutional registry. At the time of initial evaluation, the baseline American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, patient demographic characteristics, history of shoulder surgery, and presence of pseudoparalysis were collected. Radiographs were obtained to evaluate the critical shoulder angle, acromial index, and progression of CTA as assessed by Hamada grading and the Seebauer classification. Patients were contacted to reassess the ASES score and their satisfaction with the improvement in their shoulder function.

RESULTS

A total of 79 patients (91.6%) were available for evaluation at a minimum of 24 months of follow-up. Multivariate logistic regression modeling revealed that scapular geometry measurements (critical shoulder angle and acromial index) and the degree of CTA (Seebauer and Hamada classifications) were not associated with worse outcomes as assessed by the ASES score. However, degenerative changes as assessed by the Hamada grade (odds ratio, 0.13 [95% confidence interval, 0.02-0.86]; P = .03) and preoperative ASES score (odds ratio, 1.04 [95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.07]; P = .008) were independently associated with higher satisfaction at 24 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that patients with greater CTA disease progression did not show differing outcomes after RTSA compared with patients with milder disease. In contrast, both poorer preoperative function and degenerative changes as assessed by the Hamada classification were associated with greater satisfaction after RTSA for CTA. Given the broad spectrum of disease in CTA, there is likely a corresponding range in patient expectations that requires further study to maximize patient satisfaction.

Early restoration of shoulder function in patients with the Grammont prosthesis compared to lateralized humeral design in reverse shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and radiographic parameters of patients after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) between the Grammont prosthesis and lateralized humeral design prosthesis.

METHODS

A total of 114 patients who underwent RSA with a lateralized humeral design (group L; 71 shoulders) and medialized humeral design (group M; 43 shoulders) prosthesis for cuff tear arthropathy or irreparable rotator cuff tear were enrolled. Clinical outcomes including visual analog scale (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES), and Constant scores and range of motion (ROM) were serially followed up at postoperative 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Radiographic parameters were measured to evaluate preoperative and postoperative status.

RESULTS

Both prostheses demonstrated similar clinical outcomes and shoulder function preoperatively and at postoperative 2 years (P >.05). However, patients in group M had significantly better postoperative active forward flexion (postoperative 3 months, 115° ± 12° vs. 101° ± 14°; P <.001; 6 months, 125° ± 13° vs. 118° ± 13°; P <.013) and abduction (3 months, 105° ± 12° vs. 98° ± 12°; P = .002); VAS (3 months, 3.1 ± 1.2 vs. 3.7 ± 1.4; P = .031; 6 months, 2.3 ± 1.1 vs. 2.8 ± 1.3; P = .038); ASES (3 months, 64.2 ± 7.0 vs. 60.4 ± 9.2; P = .022; 6 months, 70.6 ± 6.0 vs. 66.6 ± 8.1; P = .007); and Constant scores (6 months, 59.6 ± 6.9 vs. 55.7 ± 9.3; P = .020). Group L showed a significantly lower rate of scapular notching than group M (15.5% vs. 41.8%; P < .001). The position of the proximal humerus in group L was more lateralized and less distalized than in group M after RSA.

CONCLUSIONS

RSA with both the Grammont and lateralized humeral design prostheses provided similar shoulder ROM restoration and functional improvements at a minimum of 2 years. However, patients with a humeral lateralized prosthesis showed slower recovery of shoulder function and ROM up to postoperative 6 months despite a lower incidence of scapular notching.

Clinical outcomes and temporal changes in the range of motion following superior capsular reconstruction for irreparable rotator cuff tears: comparison based on the Hamada classification, presence or absence of shoulder pseudoparalysis, and status of the subscapularis tendon

BACKGROUND

Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) has recently gained popularity as a surgical solution for patients with massive rotator cuff tears or shoulder pseudoparalysis (PPS). Good clinical outcomes have been reported after SCR; however, the factors that influence its clinical outcomes remain unclear. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to clarify the factors influencing postoperative outcomes after SCR using tensor fascia lata graft, for which we evaluated the Hamada grade, patients with or without PPS, and the status of the subscapularis tendon (SSC).

METHODS

In total, 54 consecutive patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears or PPS who underwent SCR between June 2014 and October 2018 were included. The enrolled patients were grouped and compared as follows: (1) Hamada grade 2 (11 patients) and Hamada grade 3 (43 patients) and (2) non-PPS (22 patients), moderate PPS (16 patients), and severe PPS (16 patients). For subanalysis, the 32 PPS patients were divided into 3 groups: intact SSC (11 patients), repairable SSC (16 patients), and irreparable SSC (5 patients). To assess shoulder function, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score was evaluated before surgery and at 24 months postoperatively; shoulder range of motion was evaluated at 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 24 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

No significant differences in postoperative ASES scores and shoulder range of motion were observed between the Hamada grade 2 and grade 3 groups or between the non-PPS, moderate PPS, and severe PPS groups. However, significant differences in postoperative shoulder elevation and ASES scores were observed between the intact SSC and irreparable SSC groups (P = .006) and between the repairable SSC and irreparable SSC groups (P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that the status of the SSC, rather than the Hamada grade or the presence or absence of PPS, influences the clinical outcomes after SCR. Therefore, reparability or intactness of the SSC is an important factor in considering the surgical indication for SCR.

Complications of Superior Capsule Reconstruction for the Treatment of Functionally Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review is to characterize the complications associated with superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) for the treatment of functionally irreparable rotator cuff tears (FIRCTs).

METHODS

This systematic review was completed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Two independent reviewers completed a search of PubMed, Embase, and Medline databases. Studies were deemed eligible for inclusion if they reported postoperative outcomes of arthroscopic SCR for FIRCTs and considered at least 1 postoperative complication. Statistical heterogeneity was quantified via the I² statistic. Due to marked heterogeneity, pooled proportions were not reported. All complications and patient-reported outcomes were described qualitatively.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The overall complication rate post-SCR ranged from 5.0% to 70.0% (I² = 84.9%). Image-verified graft retear ranged from 8% to 70%, I² = 79.4%), with higher rates reported when SCR was performed using allograft (19%-70%, I² 76.6%) compared to autograft (8%-29%, I² = 66.1%). Reoperation (0%-36%, I² = 73.4%), revision surgeries (0%-21%, I² = 81.2%), medical complications (0%-5%, I² = 0.0%), and infections (0%-5%, I² = 0.0%) were also calculated.

CONCLUSIONS

SCR carries a distinct complication profile when used for the treatment of FIRCTs. The overall rate of complications ranged from 5.0% to 70.0%. The most common complication is graft retear with higher ranges in allografts (19%-70%) compared to autografts (8%-29%). The majority of studies reported at least 1 reoperation (range, 0%-36%), most commonly for revision to reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level IV or better investigations.

Consensus statement on the treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears: a Delphi approach by the Neer Circle of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons

BACKGROUND

Management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) remains controversial owing to variability in patient features and outcomes contributing to a lack of unanimity in treatment recommendations. The purpose of this study was to implement the Delphi process using experts from the Neer Circle of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons to determine areas of consensus regarding treatment options for a variety of MIRCTs.

METHODS

A panel of 120 shoulder surgeons were sent a survey regarding MIRCT treatments including arthroscopic débridement and partial cuff repair, graft augmentation, reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), superior capsular reconstruction (SCR), and tendon transfer. An iterative Delphi process was then conducted with a first-round questionnaire consisting of 13 patient factors with the option for open-ended responses to identify important features influencing the treatment of MIRCTs. The second-round survey sought to determine the importance of patient factors related to the 6 included treatment options. A third-round survey asked participants to classify treatment options for 60 MIRCT patient scenarios as either preferred treatment, acceptable treatment, not acceptable/contraindicated, or unsure/no opinion. Patient scenarios were declared to achieve consensus for the preferred and not acceptable/contraindicated categories when at least 80% of the survey respondents agreed on a response, and a 90% threshold was required for the acceptable treatment category, defined by an acceptable treatment or preferred treatment response.

RESULTS

Seventy-two members agreed to participate and were deemed to have the requisite expertise to contribute based on their survey responses regarding clinical practice and patient volume. There were 20 clinical scenarios that reached 90% consensus as an acceptable treatment, with RSA selected for 18 scenarios and arthroscopic débridement and/or partial repair selected for 2. RSA was selected as the singular preferred treatment option in 8 scenarios. Not acceptable/contraindicated treatment options reached consensus in 8 scenarios, of which, 4 related to SCR, 3 related to RSA, and 1 related to partial repair with graft augmentation.

CONCLUSION

This Delphi process exhibited significant consensus regarding RSA as a preferred treatment strategy in older patients with pseudoparesis, an irreparable subscapularis, and dynamic instability. In addition, the process identified certain unacceptable treatments for MIRCTs such as SCR in older patients with pseudoparesis and an irreparable subscapularis or RSA in young patients with an intact or reparable subscapularis without pseudoparesis or dynamic instability. The publication of these scenarios and areas of consensus may serve as a useful guide for practitioners in the management of MIRCTs.

Factors Affecting Prolonged Postoperative Pain and Analgesic Use After Arthroscopic Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Repair

Background:

Postoperative pain and analgesic use after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair remain important issues that affect rehabilitation and overall outcomes.

Purpose:

To evaluate the pre- and intraoperative factors that may cause prolonged duration of postoperative pain and analgesic use.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

We included 443 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and subacromial decompression. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain were obtained preoperatively and at 30 and 90 days postoperatively. Patients were divided into a group who had prolonged postoperative pain (duration ≥1 and <3 months; n = 86 patients) and a group with nonprolonged pain (duration <1 month; n = 357 patients). The following factors were compared between groups: age, sex, body mass index, repair technique, tear size, retraction amount, repair tension, tendon degeneration, preoperative pseudoparesis, symptom duration, application of microfracture to the rotator cuff footprint for marrow stimulation, smoking, degree of fatty degeneration, preoperative narcotic analgesic use, diabetes, acromioclavicular joint degeneration, and preoperative Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) and American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) scores.

Results:

Significant differences were seen between the prolonged and nonprolonged groups regarding the median duration of pain (54 vs 27 days, respectively; P < .001) and analgesic use (42 vs 28 days, respectively; P < .001). Significant differences were noted between the groups for symptom duration (P = .007), smoking status (P = .001), degree of fatty degeneration (P = .009), preoperative narcotic analgesic use (P < .001), preoperative DN4 and ASES scores, 30-day VAS score (P < .001), duration of opioid and nonopioid analgesic use (P < .001), tear size (P = .026), and retraction stage (P = .032). Tear size (P = .009), retraction amount (P = .005), preoperative narcotic analgesic use (P < .001), degree of fatty degeneration (P < .001), and preoperative DN4 score (P = .024) were factors independently associated with prolonged postoperative pain and analgesic use.

Conclusion:

Patients with larger size tears, retracted tendons, preoperative use of narcotic analgesics, higher tensioned tendon after repair, and Goutallier grade 3 or 4 fatty degeneration faced an increased risk of prolonged postoperative pain and analgesic use after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. These factors might be mitigated by psychosocial support; gentle, controlled, and individualized postoperative rehabilitation approaches; detailed preoperative evaluation; and closer follow-up of patients who are treated operatively.

Current Options in Tendon Transfers for Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears

Massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator-cuff tears are debilitating lesions that usually require surgical treatment. Even though there is no consensus regarding the best surgical technique, tendinous transfers around the shoulder are the most commonly performed procedures. The latissimus dorsi tendon remains the most commonly used, but different modifications to the original technique have been shown to minimize complications and to improve functional results and satisfaction. Other techniques, such as the transfer of the lower trapezius tendon, are promising and should be considered, especially for patients with isolated loss of external rotation. The present paper is a literary review regarding tendon transfers for irreparable posterosuperior rotator-cuff tears.

The best options in superior capsular reconstruction

Irreparable massive rotator cuff tears cause pain, loss of function, and a decrease in range of motion, which cause serious disturbances in daily life. Young patients, in particular, are active and have relatively high functional requirements, and their surgical options are limited. Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) was first proposed for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears, good clinical results have been reported in short-term follow up. Since then, SCR has been used increasingly worldwide for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears, and various studies have been published on clinical outcomes, biomechanical outcomes, surgical techniques, and graft types. This article reviews the optimal graft and surgical options for improving clinical outcomes in SCR.

Preliminary outcomes of arthroscopic biceps rerouting for the treatment of large to massive rotator cuff tears

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate the short-term outcomes of arthroscopic biceps rerouting (ABR) for the treatment of large to massive rotator cuff tears (LMRCTs).

METHODS

A prospective evaluation of patients treated with ABR for the repair of LMRCTs was performed, with a minimum follow-up period of 18 months. Range of motion and functional outcomes (visual analog scale pain score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Korean Shoulder Scale score) were assessed preoperatively and at final follow-up. Radiographs were used to evaluate the acromiohumeral interval (AHI). Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at 2 and 12 months postoperatively to examine the integrity of the repaired rotator cuff tendons.

RESULTS

Eighty patients who met the study criteria underwent ABR from March 2017 to January 2019 in our hospital. Of these patients, 61 could be evaluated ≥18 months after surgery. The average age of the enrolled patients was 64.5 years. The visual analog scale pain score decreased from 3.7 preoperatively to 1.6 at final follow-up (P = .019), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score improved from 60.0 to 85.2 (P < .001), and the Korean Shoulder Scale score improved from 64.3 to 85.3 (P = .001). Assessment of range of motion showed significant improvement in forward flexion (from 138° to 146°, P < .001), external rotation at 90° of abduction (from 80° to 85°, P = .037), and internal rotation (from spinal level 9 to spinal level 10, P = .015) from preoperatively to last follow-up. The AHI was 7.1 mm at baseline and improved significantly to 9.7 mm at 3 months postoperatively (P < .001). The mean AHI at last follow-up was only 9 mm, but this was still significantly better than the mean preoperative AHI (P < .001). Of the patients, 16 (26%) exhibited a retear of the repaired rotator cuff on magnetic resonance imaging at 12 months postoperatively. Male sex was the only significant risk factor for retear (P = .037).

CONCLUSION

ABR improved the functional and radiologic outcomes of patients with LMRCTs. The ABR technique can be a useful treatment option for LMRCTs.

Does Margin Convergence Reverse Pseudoparalysis in Patients with Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears?

BACKGROUND

Margin convergence has been shown to restore muscle tension in a cadaveric model of a rotator cuff tear. However, the clinical utility of this technique remains uncertain for patients with pseudoparalysis caused by an irreparable rotator cuff tear.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) For patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, in what proportion of patients does margin convergence reverse pseudoparalysis? (2) In patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, does margin convergence improve American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores? (3) What is the survivorship free from MRI evidence of retear after margin convergence?

METHODS

Between 2000 and 2015, we treated 203 patients for pseudoparalysis with a rotator cuff tear. Pseudoparalysis was defined as active elevation less than 90° with no stiffness, which a physical therapist evaluated in the sitting position using a goniometer after subacromial injection of 10 cc lidocaine to eliminate pain. Of those, we considered patients who underwent at least 3 weeks of unsuccessful nonoperative treatment in our hospital as potentially eligible. Twenty-one percent (43 of 203) who either improved or were lost to follow-up within 3 weeks of nonoperative treatment were excluded. A further 12% (25 of 203) were excluded because of cervical palsy, axillary nerve palsy after dislocation or subluxation, and development of severe shoulder stiffness (passive shoulder elevation < 90°). Repair was the first-line treatment, but if tears were considered irreparable with the torn tendon unable to reach the original footprint after mobilizing the cuff during surgery, margin convergence was used. When margin convergence failed, the procedure was converted to hemiarthroplasty using a small humeral head to help complete the repair. Therefore, 21% (42 of 203) of patients treated with regular repair (18% [36 of 203]) or hemiarthroplasty (3% [6 of 203]) were excluded. That left 93 patients eligible for consideration. Of those, 13 patients were lost before the minimum study follow-up of 2 years or had incomplete datasets, and 86% (80 of 93) were analyzed (49 men and 31 women; mean age 68 ± 9 years; mean follow-up 26 ± 4 months). Seventy-six percent (61 of 80) were not evaluated in the last 5 years. We considered reversal of pseudoparalysis as our primary study outcome of interest; we defined this as greater than 90° active forward elevation; physical therapists in care measured this in the sitting position by using goniometers. Clinical outcomes were evaluated based on the ASES score from chart review, active ROM in the shoulder measured by the physical therapists, and the 8-month Kaplan-Meier survivorship free from MRI evidence of retear graded by the first author.

RESULTS

Pseudoparalysis was reversed in 93% (74 of 80) patients, and improvement in ASES scores was observed at the final follow-up (preoperative 22 ± 10 to postoperative 62 ± 21, mean difference 40 [95% CI 35 to 45]; p < 0.01). The 8-month Kaplan-Meier survivorship free from MRI evidence of retear after surgery was 72% (95% CI 63% to 81%). There were no differences in clinical scores between patients with and without retears (intact ASES 64 ± 24, re-tear ASES 59 ± 10, mean difference 6 [95% CI -5 to 16]; p = 0.27).

CONCLUSION

Margin convergence can be a good option for treating patients with pseudoparalysis and irreparable rotator cuff tears despite the relatively high retear rates. The proportion of pseudoparalysis reversal was lower in patients with three-tendon involvement. Further studies will be needed to define the appropriate procedure in this group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study.

Exploring expert variability in defining pseudoparalysis: an international survey

BACKGROUND

There is currently disagreement among experts in the field of shoulder surgery when attempting to define the term "pseudoparalysis." Multiple surgical techniques to address this condition have been investigated; however, many studies have recruited heterogeneous patient populations and have used varying definitions of pseudoparalysis. This makes it difficult to compare outcomes among various techniques. To our knowledge, no previous study has surveyed international experts regarding the definition of pseudoparalysis using a questionnaire and video-based patient assessment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of agreement among shoulder surgeons in defining and applying the term "pseudoparalysis." We hypothesized that inter-rater agreement for classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis would be poor.

METHODS

Members of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, the European Society for Surgery of the Shoulder and the Elbow, and our national shoulder and elbow society were surveyed on 2 occasions using an electronic questionnaire. All surgeons were asked to identify their preferred definition of pseudoparalysis from 1 of 4 options. The surgeons then viewed video examinations of 10 patients and labeled them as having pseudoparalysis or not. Inter-rater reliability and intrarater reliability were calculated as κ coefficients. The Pearson χ² test was used to detect associations between the preferred definition and demographic information.

RESULTS

A total of 246 surgeons responded to at least 1 survey. Overall inter-rater agreement on classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis based on video consultation showed a κ value of 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58-0.60). The same verbal definition was selected by 56.1% of surgeons. The surgeons were not internally consistent in their choice of definition, with intrarater reliability showing a κ value of 0.64 (95% CI, 0.48-0.81). Intrarater reliability for classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis was better, with a κ value of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.72-0.83). An association was observed between how surgeons defined pseudoparalysis and their age (P = .03), as well as their shoulder caseload percentage (P = .04).

CONCLUSION

Shoulder surgeons do not agree on how best to define pseudoparalysis of the shoulder. Inter-rater agreement based on video consultation was weak overall and improved with the elimination of an outlier video. Intrarater agreement was less frequent when selecting a preferred definition compared with classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis based on video examinations. Surgeons may rely less on explicit criteria and more on a conceptual framework when assigning a "pseudoparalytic" label. Care should be taken with use of the term "pseudoparalysis" in clinical outcome studies when there is clearly a lack of consensus among experts in defining this term.

Three-dimensional kinematic features in large and massive rotator cuff tears with pseudoparesis

BACKGROUND

Although massive rotator cuff tears occasionally lead to severe impairment of shoulder function, the criteria for losing the ability to elevate the arm are unclear. This study aimed to analyze the features of both tear size and 3-dimensional (3D) shoulder kinematics that correspond to the loss of the ability to elevate the arm in patients with large and massive rotator cuff tears.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled patients with rotator cuff tears, including the supraspinatus and more than half of the subscapularis or more than two-thirds of the infraspinatus, without severe pain. A total of 13 patients (15 shoulders) were divided into 2 groups: 9 shoulders in the pseudoparesis (P) group and 6 shoulders in the non-pseudoparesis (NP) group. Fluoroscopic images were collected during active scapular-plane elevation, and 3D shoulder kinematics was analyzed using 2-dimensional-3D registration techniques. The radiographic findings and 3D kinematic results were compared between the groups. The correlation between tear size and 3D kinematics was also investigated.

RESULTS

The most superior position of the humeral head center was significantly higher in the P group (6.7 ± 3.0 mm in P group vs. 3.6 ± 1.3 mm in NP group, P = .0321). Superior migration, which was defined as the most superior position > 5 mm, was significantly more frequent in the P group (7 shoulders and 1 shoulder in the P and NP groups, respectively; P = .0201). Thoracohumeral external rotation was significantly smaller in the P group (16° ± 31° in P group vs. 91° ± 21° in NP group, P < .0001). The total tear size and the tear sizes of the anterior and posterior rotator cuffs were significantly correlated with the superior (r = 0.68, P = .0056), anterior (r = 0.68, P = .0058), and posterior (r = -0.80, P = .0004) positions of the humeral head center. The tear size of the posterior rotator cuff also tended to be correlated with glenohumeral external rotation (r = -0.48, P = .0719).

CONCLUSION

Anterior and posterior rotator cuff tears cause significant superior and anteroposterior translations of the humeral head, and posterior cuff tears may lead to loss of glenohumeral external rotation. With these abnormal kinematics, superior migration and loss of thoracohumeral external rotation were identified as features of pseudoparesis.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for patients with minimal preoperative pain: a matched-cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Profound improvements in function have been described in patients following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). Previous studies have demonstrated young age, high preoperative function, and neurologic dysfunction to be predictors of poor functional improvement. However, no study to date has focused on patients electing to undergo RSA for function more than pain. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of RSA in patients with minimal preoperative pain with those in patients who have higher baseline pain.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective matched-cohort study of RSA patients treated by a single surgeon with a minimum of 2 years' follow-up. Patients with at least moderate baseline pain (function-pain group), predefined by existing literature as a visual analog scale pain score > 3, were matched 3:1 based on sex, indication, and age to patients with minimal pain (function group), defined as a visual analog scale score ≤ 3. Patient-reported outcome measures, active range of motion, and overall satisfaction were compared. The percentage of maximal improvement in outcomes and the proportion of patients exceeding the established threshold that predicts excellent satisfaction were also compared.

RESULTS

A total of 260 patients (195 in function-pain group and 65 in function group) were selected for matched analysis with a similar sex distribution; the mean age was 73.1 years, and the mean follow-up period was 50 months. No differences in most recent postoperative function, overall improvement in functional scores, and active motion were found between patients in the 2 groups (P > .05). However, pain scores improved only in patients with at least moderate baseline pain (P < .0001). Patient satisfaction was significantly different (P = .035), as 10.8% of patients who elected to undergo RSA for function were unsatisfied. The function cohort also had worse percentage of maximal Simple Shoulder Test score (P = .034) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (P < .0001) improvement, and a lower proportion of these patients exceeded the threshold for the percentage of maximal improvement that predicts an "excellent" outcome (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

RSA patients with minimal preoperative pain achieve significant improvements in function and motion similar to those who choose to undergo RSA for both pain and function, but they are less satisfied and are less likely to achieve an excellent outcome. Patients electing to proceed with RSA with minimal pain should be counseled accordingly.

Treatment of non-arthritic pseudoparetic shoulders with irreparable massive rotator cuff tears: arthroscopic procedures yield comparable midterm results to reverse arthroplasty

Background

Irreparable massive rotator cuff tears (IMRCTs) are a well-known cause for functional limitation and difficult to treat. Although several joint-preserving as well as joint-replacing procedures were found to provide pain relief and gain of function, midterm results are scarce, particularly in pseudoparetic shoulder joints unaccompanied by severe osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to compare the midterm functional outcomes of arthroscopic procedures to those of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) in pseudoparetic shoulders with IMRCTs unaccompanied by severe osteoarthritis.

Methods

All patients who underwent either joint-preserving (group A) or joint-replacing (group B) procedures for IMRCT unaccompanied by severe osteoarthritis with a pseudoparetic shoulder function were retrospectively included. Clinical assessment included the Constant Score (CS), the Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) and the Visual Analog Score (VAS) at baseline and at latest follow-up. Furthermore, the complication and revision rates were assessed.

Results

Overall, a total 56 patients were included of whom each 28 patients formed group A (male, 36%) and B (male, 53%) with a mean patient age at time of surgery of 70 ± 7 years and 72 ± 7 years, respectively. The mean follow-up period was 56 ± 17 months. At final follow-up, the total CS (group A: 66 ± 14 points; group B 54 ± 15 points) was significantly increased after arthroscopic treatment when compared to RTSA (p=0.011). However, no significant differences were detected with SSV (p=0.583) and VAS (p=0.536). Although complication rate (11% versus 18%) was not significantly different (p=0.705), number of revision surgeries was significantly higher in group B when compared to group A (p=0.041).

Conclusions

In non-arthritic pseudoparetic shoulders, both joint-preserving and joint-replacing procedures yielded good clinical midterm outcomes for the treatment of degenerative IMRCTs. Despite of comparable functional and satisfactory functional improvement, increased complication rates and surgical invasiveness outweigh the benefits of primary RTSA and therefore reserve this procedure to a second-line treatment in pseudoparetic patients without any signs of severe cuff arthropathy.