Table 2.
Comparison of Answers for the Top 10 Most Popular Questions Between Google and ChatGPT
| Question | Google Answer | Grade | ChatGPT Answer | Grade | Evidence-Based Response |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| How long does it take to recover from a rotator cuff repair surgery? | It takes the repaired rotator cuff tendons about 6 weeks to heal initially to the bone, 3 months to form a relatively strong attachment to the bone, and about 6 to 9 months before the tendon is completely healed to the bone. (academic) | 1 | Generally, it takes several months to achieve a full recovery and return to normal activities. First 6 weeks: During this period, physical therapy will begin to regain some range of motion in the shoulder while still protecting the repair. 6 weeks to 3 months: Physical therapy intensifies to work on restoring strength, flexibility, and function. 3-6 months: At this stage, patients can gradually return to more normal activities, but they may still need to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous overhead movements. 6 months and beyond: It can take up to 6 months or longer for some patients to achieve a full recovery. (academic) |
1 | On average, patients experience 75% of pain relief and 50% of functional recovery by 3 months postoperatively with larger tears having a slower speed of recovery. By 6 months, patients should experience a near full recovery.16 |
| What are the 3 types of rotator cuff repair? |
|
1 |
|
1 | The 3 main modalities of rotator cuff repair are arthroscopic, open, and mini-open.17,18 |
| Why is rotator cuff repair so painful? | A rotator cuff surgery is a major surgical intervention in the shoulder, and the reason that there is pain after surgery is the amount of normal surgical trauma. Cutting, drilling, cauterizing, and suturing tissues create pain and inflammation. (medical practice) | 2 |
|
2 | Recovery from rotator cuff repair can be painful as the result of significant soft-tissue mobilization during the procedure.19 |
| How painful is rotator cuff surgery and recovery? | Patients who are recovering from rotator cuff surgery know all too well that surgery on the shoulder is often painful. Some patients have very little pain after shoulder surgery, but most have significant pain for a few days to a few weeks. (single-surgeon practice) | 3 | The pain experienced during rotator cuff surgery and the recovery period can vary from person to person, as it depends on factors such as the individual’s pain tolerance, the extent of the surgery, and the success of postoperative pain management. Generally, rotator cuff surgery is considered a moderately painful procedure, and the recovery process can be challenging, particularly during the initial phase. In the immediate postoperative period, patients may experience significant pain and discomfort, especially for the first few days after surgery. The pain is often managed with prescribed medications and a combination of ice packs and elevation to reduce swelling. Over time, the pain typically subsides as the body heals, and the patient may transition to milder pain relief measures. (academic) |
1 | RCR can be associated with severe postoperative pain and discomfort that requires adequate analgesia. 20 |
| What are the worst things to do after rotator cuff surgery? |
|
1 | After rotator cuff surgery, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions carefully to promote proper healing and avoid complications. Here are some of the worst things to do after rotator cuff surgery:
|
1 | Heavy lifting and unnecessary movements should be avoided in the immediate postoperative period. Patients with physically demanding jobs should take extra caution when returning to work to prevent risk of reinjury.21 |
| How long after rotator cuff surgery can you sleep in a bed? | You will most likely need to sleep in a semi-reclined position for at least 6 weeks after surgery, sometimes longer. If you don’t own a recliner, it may be worthwhile to buy one or borrow one from a friend before you have your shoulder surgery. (medical practice) | 2 | Patients may be advised to avoid sleeping on the operated shoulder for a certain period to allow for proper healing. The specific timeframe can vary depending on the surgeon's recommendations, the type of surgery performed, and individual factors. (no source provided) | 4 | Patients should avoid sleeping on the operated shoulder for several weeks after surgery. Patients may experience sleep disturbances, which should begin to improve by 3 months postoperatively.22 |
| Is rotator cuff surgery worth having? | Surgery may be a good choice for you if both of the following are true: Shoulder pain or weakness limits your ability to do your daily activities, to be active, and to sleep well. These symptoms have not improved after a period of non-surgical treatment, including a well-designed physical rehabilitation program. (government) | 2 | The decision to undergo rotator cuff surgery depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the individual's overall health, their level of pain and disability, and the effectiveness of nonsurgical treatments. Rotator cuff surgery is often considered when other conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and medication, have failed to provide relief. The surgery aims to repair the torn or damaged tendons in the shoulder to improve function and reduce pain. (academic) |
2 | RCR should only be considered after failing to improve with conservative management, which tends to have good success.23 |
| How long do you wear a sling after rotator cuff surgery? | Patients are often advised to wear a sling or brace for the first 4-6 weeks after RCR surgery to prevent them from performing any physical activities involving the affected shoulder. (government) | 1 | The duration for wearing a sling after rotator cuff surgery can vary depending on the individual patient’s recovery progress and the surgeon’s recommendations. Typically, patients may need to wear a sling for a few weeks after surgery to protect the healing tissues and promote proper shoulder positioning. However, it's important to note that specific guidelines and recommendations can only be provided by the surgeon who performs the procedure, as they can tailor the recovery plan on the basis of the patient’s condition and the specific surgical technique used. (no source provided) |
2 | Although most clinicians recommend wearing a sling for 4-6 weeks postoperatively, some studies have shown improved early range of motion when no sling is used in the postoperative period.24 |
| What is the fastest way to recover from rotator cuff surgery? |
|
2 | Recovering from rotator cuff surgery requires a combination of following the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, undergoing physical therapy, and allowing ample time for healing. Although there is no magic “fastest” way to recover, there are steps you can take to optimize your recovery process. Here are some general tips:
|
2 | Avoid aggressive early rehabilitation after RCR as full tendon to bone healing typically takes 12 weeks.25 |
| Can I drive 2 weeks after rotator cuff surgery? | It’s important to note that during rotator cuff surgery recovery, you will likely be in a sling from 2 to 6 weeks. Until you’re out of your sling, it is not recommended to drive. (single-surgeon practice) | 2 | Driving after rotator cuff surgery can depend on various factors, including the type of surgery performed, the extent of the injury, your individual recovery progress, and your surgeon’s recommendations. In general, driving after rotator cuff surgery may not be advisable during the early stages of recovery because of the risk of reinjury and impaired control of the vehicle. The use of pain medications and limitations in range of motion could also affect your ability to drive safely. (no source provided) |
4 | Patients should be able to drive 2 weeks after RCR as long as pain and range of motion are not limiting activity.26 |
RCR, rotator cuff repair.