The effects of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair on human sexual activity

Abstract

Purpose To assess the effect of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair on sexual function, desire, and satisfaction, in addition to the shoulder function. Methods We did arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for 55 sexually active married individuals with rotator cuff tears. Shoulder and sexual function were assessed using: 1- the Constant-Murley score (CMS), 2- two visual analog scales (VAS) questionnaires, one to evaluate pain level during daily activities and the second to assess the pain level only during sexual activity, 3- Change in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ), 4- Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI) Questionnaire, 5- the Index of Sexual Satisfaction (ISS) Questionnaire, and 6- the study-specific short questionnaires. Assessment parameters were done before surgery and at 1 month (1M), 3 months (3M), 6 months (6M), 12 months (12M), 18 months (18M), and 24 months (24M) after surgery. Results Only 49 subjects were included in the final analysis (6 were excluded from the last follow-up). 77% of the study subjects found that their sexual life was affected by their shoulder condition, with 65% reporting that this was due to increased pain.75% needed to adjust their sexual position to accommodate their shoulder problem. 55% found that below the partner position is the most comfortable position during the sexual act. Additionally, we found a significant improvement over time in the CMS score, two VAS questionnaires, CSFQ, and ISS. Conclusion Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair improved shoulder function, pain level, sexual function, satisfaction, and mobility during sexual engagements. it did not affect the level of sexual desire.