Year: 2025 | Month: August | Volume: 12 | Issue: 8 | Pages: 445-455
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20250853
Comparative Outcomes of Early vs. Delayed Treatment for Rotator Cuff Injuries - A Meta-Analysis Study
Nyoman Gilang Putrayasa*, Maria Anastasia*, Putu Astawa**, IGN Wien Aryana**
*Resident of Orthopaedic and Traumatology, Prof Ngoerah General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
**Department of Orthopaedic and Traumatology, Prof Ngoerah General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Corresponding Author: Dary Gunawan
ABSTRACT
Background: This meta-analysis evaluates clinical and structural outcomes of early versus delayed rotator cuff repair. Rotator cuff injuries commonly impair shoulder function, causing pain and disability. The study compares functional recovery, pain relief, and re-tear rates to determine optimal surgical timing, aiming to guide decision-making for improved patient outcomes and tendon healing.
Objective: To compare clinical outcomes between Early vs. Delayed Treatment for Rotator Cuff Injuries
Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library (2010–2025) identified comparative studies on early versus delayed rotator cuff treatment in athletes. Inclusion criteria required direct comparison and at least one functional outcome. Data extraction and quality assessment used Review Manager 5.4 and the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.
Results: Four studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising three cohort studies and one randomized controlled trial, totaling 190 patients. Pooled analysis showed no significant differences in Constant Score, Oxford Shoulder Score, OA AC joint changes, or retear rates. However, UCLA Scores significantly favored early treatment, suggesting potential functional benefits with earlier intervention.
Conclusion: Early rotator cuff repair may improve shoulder function and reduce retears, though Constant and Oxford scores show no differences. Further high-quality randomized trials are required to confirm optimal surgical timing.
Keywords: Rotator cuff repair, Early treatment, delayed treatment, Functional outcomes
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