Outcomes of Elective Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Single-Center Service Evaluation

Abstract

Introduction Elective shoulder arthroplasty is increasingly performed in elderly patients with degenerative shoulder pathology. Optimizing perioperative care is essential to minimize complications and length of stay (LOS). Methods A retrospective audit was conducted of all elective shoulder arthroplasty procedures performed at our center between January 2024 and April 2025. Revision surgeries (n=11) and trauma cases (n=1) were excluded. Data on patient demographics, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, surgical indications, procedure type, LOS, readmissions, and surgical timing were analyzed. Results A total of 72 patients were evaluated. The majority of patients (n=51, 70.8%) were aged 71-90 years. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty was performed in 57 (79.2%) cases. Most patients were ASA II (n=48, 66.7%), with 33.3% (n=24) having an ASA score of III. Degenerative joint disease (arthritis with or without cuff tear) was the most common indication (n=52, 72.2%). Median LOS was one to three days; 36.1% (n=26) were discharged after a one-day stay. Complications (anemia, hyponatremia, hypotension) and social factors were the main causes of extended stay. Readmissions were rare (n=1, 1.4%). Conclusion Elective shoulder arthroplasty can be safely delivered with short LOS and low readmission rates. Enhanced preoperative assessment, early physiotherapy and imaging, and streamlined discharge planning may further improve efficiency and bed utilization.

Keywords: asa classification; audit; elective orthopedic surgery; length of stay; reverse shoulder arthroplasty; shoulder arthroplasty.