Functional impact of cardiac implanted devices on ipsilateral shoulder range of motion, scapular mobility, and self-reported quality of life

Abstract

Purpose: Shoulder disorders may occur for procedural reasons in patients fitted with a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED). This study aimed to examine the effects of CIED implantation on shoulder functions and scapular dyskinesis.

Materials and methods: Thirty patients fitted with a CIED formed the study group (SG), whilst 30 participants without a CIED formed the control group (CG). The range of motion (ROM), grip strength, lateral scapular slide test (static), scapular dyskinesis test (dynamic), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Shoulder Score, and the Short Form-36 Health Survey (Physical and Mental Component Summary [PCS and MCS]) were applied in the study.

Results: The shoulder’s mean flexion and abduction ROM on the implant side were found to be significantly lower in the SG than the CG (p= .016 and p= .001, respectively). Similarly, a significant grip strength loss on the implant side was detected in the SG than in the CG (p= .036). Static and dynamic scapular dyskinesis frequencies were shown to be significantly higher in the SG than in the CG (p= .002 and p< .001, respectively). The ASES Shoulder Score and PCS score were significantly lower in the SG than in the CG (p= .014 and p= .007, respectively). However, no difference was revealed between the two groups with respect to the contralateral upper limb.

Conclusion: The frequency of scapular dyskinesis and disability was higher, and upper limb functions, grip strength, and physical subdivision of quality of life decreased in CIED recipients. These findings suggest that such parameters should be included in physiotherapy assessment and treatment programs.