Comparison of abduction neutral rotation brace versus conventional arm sling following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE

To compare postoperative range of motion (ROM), pain and functional outcomes in patients immobilized with an abduction neutral rotation brace (ANRB) versus a conventional arm sling following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR).

METHODS

Thirty patients aged 40-75 years with full-thickness supraspinatus and/or infraspinatus tear undergoing ARCR were randomized to immobilized using either an abduction neutral rotation brace (n = 16) or a conventional arm sling (n = 16). Outcomes including ROM, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and Constant-Murley score (CMS) were assessed preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

At 3 months, patients in the abduction neutral rotation brace group demonstrated significantly greater forward flexion and external rotation compared to the arm sling group (P < 0.05). VAS pain scores were significantly lower at 6 weeks and 6 months in the brace group (P < 0.05). CMS showed no significant difference between groups at final follow-up. No re-tears or complications were observed in either group.

CONCLUSION

Use of an abduction neutral rotation brace after ARCR results in improved early postoperative ROM and pain control compared to a conventional arm sling. This technique may facilitate earlier rehabilitation and higher patient satisfaction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I; Randomized Controlled Trial.