Factors associated with patient satisfaction after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: do they differ by age?

Background: Several studies have investigated factors affecting patient satisfaction after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR); however, it is unknown if these factors vary according to age. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with satisfaction of ARCR in individuals 70 years and older versus younger patients.

Methods: Among 319 consecutive patients who underwent ARCR, 173 were included. Patients were divided into an old age group (≥70 years) and a young age group (<70 years), and the two age groups were further divided into satisfied and unsatisfied subgroups. Patient satisfaction was evaluated at the final follow-up visit using a binary question (yes or no). Clinical outcomes were assessed preoperatively and at the final follow-up.

Results: Satisfaction rates in the older and younger age groups were 75.41% and 79.47%, respectively. Mean changes in Constant and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores were significantly different between the satisfied and unsatisfied subgroups (P=0.031 and P=0.012, respectively) in the young patients. In the old patients, there was a significant difference in the mean change in depression subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (P=0.031) and anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (P=0.044) scores between the satisfied and unsatisfied subgroups.

Conclusions: Factors affecting patient satisfaction after ARCR differed according to age. Psychological improvement was more important to elderly patients, whereas restoration of function was more important to younger patients. Pain relief was important for both age groups. Level of evidence: III.