The Influence of Parkinson's Disease on Outcome and Complication Rate of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Matched Group Analysis

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with a higher complication rate after common orthopedic procedures, such as spinal fusion, knee arthroplasty, or hip arthroplasty. A few reports have also suggested higher complication rates after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). The aim of this study was to assess the outcome and complication profile of patients with RTSA and PD. A total of 17 patients (mean age, 73.9 +/- 9.5 years) with PD and RTSA with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were identified on screening of the authors' institutional RTSA database. These patients were compared with a 1:4 matched cohort group of 68 patients (mean age, 73.9 +/- 7.9 years) without PD. Complications and revisions for all patients were assessed by review of medical records. Outcome scores included the Constant-Murley score and the Subjective Shoulder Value. At a mean follow-up of 49.5 +/- 24 months, statistically significant improvements were obtained in postoperative Subjective Shoulder Value, Constant-Murley score, pain, flexion, abduction, internal rotation, and strength for both groups. However, the control group had significantly greater improvements in flexion, abduction, strength, Subjective Shoulder Value, and Constant-Murley score. Postoperative complications (35% vs 6%; odds ratio, 8.7) and reinterventions (29% vs 1%; odds ratio, 27.9) were substantially greater for patients with PD, with the most frequent complications being fractures of the scapular spine and the acromion. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is associated with a significantly higher complication rate and revision rate and an inferior outcome in patients with PD compared with neurologically healthy patients. Indications for RTSA should be carefully evaluated and questioned for patients with PD.