Relationship between CIED extent of displacement toward the shoulder while in the supine position and shoulder impairment

Abstract Background Device‐related shoulder impairment is a common complication in cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) recipients. This study examined the relationship between the extent of device displacement toward the shoulder while in the supine position and ipsilateral shoulder impairment. Methods This cross‐sectional study included 142 consecutive patients with CIEDs. The effects of the extent of device displacement on functional limitations, muscle strength, pain–disability, and quality of life were evaluated. Range of motion (ROM), grip strength (GS), the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and the 36‐item Short‐Form (SF‐36) Health Survey were used. Results The mean device displacement was greater in patients with than without device‐related shoulder impairment (51 ± 19 vs. 38 ± 15 mm; p < .001). Female gender ( p = .046), high body mass index ( p = .008), and defibrillator implantation ( p = .004) were significantly more frequent in patients with than without impairment. Patients with excessive device displacement had significantly higher ROM limitation rates ( p = .003) and SPADI scores ( p = .02) and significantly lower GS ( p = .04) and SF‐36 scores ( p = .032). Defibrillator implantation (OR: 2.569, 95% CI: 1.216–4.681; p = .03) and the extent of device displacement (OR: 1.502, 95% CI: 1.186–1.852; p = .01) were independent predictors of shoulder impairment. Conclusions Excessive displacement of the device toward the shoulder while in the supine position causes shoulder impairment by contacting more muscle fibers. Obese female patients with defibrillators have the highest risk.