Effect of prior breast cancer treatment on outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) provides reliable outcomes in cuff tear arthropathy, but the impact of prior breast cancer treatment on safety and functional outcomes remains unclear.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 15 women with prior ipsilateral breast cancer treatment (mastectomy, lymph node dissection, and/or radiotherapy) who underwent rTSA for cuff tear arthropathy. These results were compared with 50 female patients who underwent rTSA for cuff tear arthropathy without breast cancer history. Outcomes included patient-reported scores (Oxford Shoulder Score, Constant Murley score, and satisfaction), range of motion, pain, and complications, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years.

RESULTS

Oxford Shoulder Score and Constant Murley score were similar between groups (41.5 vs. 41.0; 69.4 vs. 71.8). Satisfaction was high in both cohorts (8.8/10). The breast cancer group showed lower abduction (139° vs. 166°, P = .003) and forward flexion (141° vs. 173°, P = .003), while internal and external rotation were comparable. Complications were numerically higher in the breast cancer cohort, with revision surgery showing a borderline difference (2/15 vs. 0/50, P = .050).

CONCLUSION

rTSA demonstrated comparable functional outcomes and satisfaction in patients with prior breast cancer treatment. Lower post-operative abduction, forward flexion and a numerically higher complication burden were observed, although complication differences were not statistically significant. Prior breast cancer treatment should not be considered an absolute contraindication, but appropriate pre-operative counseling remains important.