Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: Impact of Diabetes Mellitus on Patient Outcomes

Abstract

Introduction: Arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears has been associated with satisfactory improvement in pain and function. The goal of this study was to compare the results of patients with diabetes and patients without diabetes after the 2 cohorts underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR). Methods: We performed a retrospective review of 56 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus or type 2 diabetes mellitus and 67 patients without diabetes, all of whom underwent arthroscopic RCR with 1 year of follow-up. Changes in range of motion (ROM), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and Penn Shoulder Score (PSS) were compared between both groups at 1 year postoperatively. Results: There was a statistically significant improvement in ROM for both groups. However, patients without diabetes had greater forward flexion (P = 0.02), abduction (P = 0.04), and external rotation (P = 0.004). Both groups noted significant improvement in their respective ASES score and PSS. However, patients with diabetes had a lower ASES score (P < 0.01) and PSS (P < 0.01). There were no differences in recurrent tears or complications. Conclusion: Arthroscopic RCR in patients with diabetes resulted in improved postoperative ROM and function.