Management of rotator cuff tears in the elderly population. (May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Micallef, Jess; Pandya, Jay; Low, Adrian K.
• Is Part Of: Maturitas. Volume 123(2019)
• Page Start: 9
• Page End: 14
• Publication Date: 2019-05
• Subjects: Rotator cuff -- Rotator cuff repair -- Elderly -- Shoulder arthroplasty; Climacteric -- Periodicals; Menopause -- Periodicals; Climacteric -- Periodicals; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; Menopause -- Periodicals; Middle Aged -- Periodicals; Climatère -- Périodiques; Ménopause -- Périodiques; Climacterium; Climacteric; Menopause; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 612.66
• DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2019.01.016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0378-5122

Abstract

Highlights: The rotator cuff consists of a four-muscle tendon unit that originates at the scapula and extends to the proximal humerus. The pathogenesis of rotator cuff tears is complex and multifactorial, and can involve degenerative processes associated with ageing, impingement and trauma. Surgical repair of rotator cuff tears gives patient satisfaction at long-term follow-up. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty improves pain and function scores as well as shoulder range of motion, making it an effective surgical option in the management of massive cuff tears. Abstract: Rotator cuff tears (RCTs) are a common cause of shoulder pain and weakness in the elderly (age > 65yrs) and result in reduced quality of life, loss of income and a burden on health care. With the elderly population living longer there is a growing interest in the effective and efficient management of RCTs. In a majority of cases, the initial treatment is conservative, with physical therapy, analgesics and possibly corticosteroid or plasma rich protein injections. There are various surgical options, including rotator cuff repair, superior capsule reconstruction, subacromial decompression and reverse shoulder arthroplasty. The aim of this article is to provide a narrative review of evidence guiding the management options for RCTs in the elderly.