Seasonal timing of surgery does not affect clinical outcomes in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

Abstract

Background

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is an effective treatment option for multiple shoulder conditions. It is unclear if seasonal timing of surgery affects outcomes.

Methods

Patients who underwent RTSA between 2015–2021 and were enrolled in a multicenter registry were eligible for inclusion. Date of surgery was divided into winter, spring, summer and fall. Patient reported outcomes, range of motion and complications at 2 years’ follow up were assessed and compared between RTSA groups for each season.

Results

863 patients were included. Breakdown by season was: winter (N = 214); spring (N = 183); summer (N = 178); fall (N = 288). There were no differences in 2-year clinical outcomes, range of motion, complications or strength between groups with the exception that patients who underwent RTSA in the fall had a higher Constant-Murley score and better active internal rotation at 90 degrees than in other seasons (p = 0.036 and p = 0.013, respectively).

Conclusion

There were very few differences in clinical outcomes based on seasonal timing for patients who undergo RTSA. Patients should feel confident that their outcomes will not vary based on the season in which they undergo RTSA.