Why is rotator cuff assessment deemed crucial before performing TSA?

Rotator cuff assessment is crucial prior to performing Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA) because it significantly influences both the stability of the shoulder joint and the functional outcomes post-surgery. The rotator cuff muscles and tendons are responsible for stabilizing the humeral head within the glenoid cavity during shoulder movements. A proper assessment can identify any tears or degenerative changes in the rotator cuff, which would affect the overall shoulder mechanics and the success of the implant.

When a surgeon evaluates the integrity of the rotator cuff before TSA, they can anticipate how the shoulder function will be after surgery. If the rotator cuff is compromised, the likelihood of achieving satisfactory range of motion, strength, and function may be diminished, leading to a suboptimal outcome. Therefore, understanding the condition of the rotator cuff helps guide the surgical approach and informs the surgeon whether additional procedures, such as rotator cuff repair, may be necessary to optimize the patient's recovery and improve overall satisfaction with the surgery.