Abstract
Background Rotator cuff tears are one of the most frequently treated disorders in arthroscopic
surgery. Besides the different surgical options, there are differences in the postoperative
aftercare. In this observational study the function, handling and comfort of two different
ortheses (ADVAGOshoulder vs. standard abduction orthesis) were compared.
Patients and Methods 53 patients with a rotator cuff tear (n = 25 ADVAGOshoulder, n = 28 standard abduction
orthesis) were examined and questioned before and after the surgical treatment based
on the DASH Score, a modified Constant Score, the function, handling and everyday
practicality of their orthesis.
Results The ADVAGOshoulder orthesis showed favorable results concerning the limitations of
daily activity, quality of sleep and limitations in movement. The assessment by the
patients regarding the contribution to therapeutic success was also more pronounced
with ADVAGOshoulder. The standard abduction orthesis was assessed twice as good as
the ADVAGOshoulder orthesis in relation to the overall success of treatment. Regarding
the DASH questionnaires no significant differences were seen between the two groups.
Conclusion Both ortheses proved to be a suitable tool for immobilization of the shoulder after
surgery, and contributed to the success of treatment, as assessed by the patients.
The ADVAGOshoulder orthesis showed advantages related to limitations in movement and
quality of sleep compared to the standard abduction orthesis.
Key words
shoulder arthroscopy - rotator cuff tear - orthesis - shoulder surgery
