Comparison of Functional and Pain Scores in The Early Period in Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Under General Anesthesia or Interscalene Block

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effects of general anesthesia (GA) and interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) on clinical outcomes following arthroscopic single-row or double-row repair of crescentic rotator cuff tears. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 80 patients (46 women, 34 men; mean age, 66.7 years) who underwent arthroscopic repair for crescent-shaped full-thickness rotator cuff tears. Patients were divided into GA (n=40) and ISB (n=40) groups. Tears were classified according to the Cofield classification. Functional outcomes were assessed using Constant-Murley, ASES, and UCLA scores, along with joint range of motion (JROM) and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores. Evaluations were performed at 6 and 18 months postoperatively. Results: At 6 months, Constant-Murley, ASES, and UCLA scores were significantly higher in the ISB group than in the GA group. No significant differences were observed between the groups at 18 months. Both groups showed significant improvement over time. JROM and VAS scores were similar between the groups. Demographic variables and repair type had no significant effect on outcomes. Conclusion: ISB was associated with improved short-term functional outcomes following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Long-term clinical results were comparable to those achieved with general anesthesia.