Summary

Intraoperative glenohumeral joint injection of HA/CMC during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair significantly improves functional outcome in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

Abstract

Background

The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of intraoperative glenohumeral joint injection of Hyaluronate/Carboxymethyl cellulose (HA/CMC) in improving postoperative outcomes following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Study Design : Double blinded, single center, randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Between August 2022 and May 2023, 90 patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery were randomly assigned to intraoperative glenohumeral joint injection of HA/CMC (treatment group) or normal saline (control group). The primary outcomes were compared between 2 groups including functional score : American shoulder and elbow score (ASES), Constant-Murley score (CS) and visual analog scale for pain (VAS) at 6 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included shoulder range of motion at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively.

Results

Functional outcome, as measured by the American Shoulder and Elbow Score (ASES) was significantly better in the treatment group than the control group at 6 months postoperatively. (p < 0.05). Shoulder range of motion was also better in the treatment group but no significant differences were observed between the two groups. No statistically significant differences postoperative pain and constant score between two groups at all time-points. (2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively)

Conclusion

Intraoperative glenohumeral joint injection of HA/CMC during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair significantly improves functional outcome, while reducing the risk of shoulder stiffness. These findings suggest that HA/CMC is a beneficial adjunct in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgeries.