Rheumatology: Current Research
Open Access

Prevention of shoulder stiffness following repair of the rotator cuff

International Conference and Exhibition on Orthopedics & Rheumatology

August 13-15, 2012 Hilton Chicago/Northbrook, USA

Jamal E.H Assobhi, Yasser A. Radwan, Hisham E. Farhoud and Atef A. Al-Feky

Accepted Abstracts: Rheumatology & Orthopedics

Abstract :

Introduction: Shoulder stiffness is common following shoulder surgery. Successful immediate postoperative painless passive motion is mandatory to regain early normal function. Patients and Methods: From April 2001 to August 2007, in a prospective randomized control study, the outcome of 46 patients who underwent open rotator cuff repairs was evaluated. Patients were randomly selected to have either subacromial Bupivacaine (SAB-group) or subacromial saline (SAS group). The technique of open surgical repair was standardized for all patients. After repair, an epidural catheter was inserted deeply in the subacromial region for 4 days. Using a syringe pump, the SAS group received 3ml/h of 0.9% saline while SAB group received 3ml/h of 0.25% Bupivacaine. Both groups were allowed for systemic Pethidine via PCA machine. Results: The immediate postoperative effects showed significant pain reduction on passive elevation, greater range of passive elevation, less Pethidine consumption, less vomiting, greater satisfaction, and shorter hospital stay in the SAB group (p<0.001). Early results at the 6th month showed significant improved function and reduced risk of developing stiffness compared with SAS group (p<0.05). Significant positive correlation was found between the range of passive elevation obtained on the 4th post operative day with the constant scores of both groups at the 6th month��?s assessment (p<0.0001). Conclusion: The SAB technique can effectively return the operated shoulder back to its normal early and reduces the incidence of early postoperative stiffness.