Successful professional reintegration: ability to work secured despite shoulder surgery

01 Situation

A 42-year-old laboratory technician suffered a rotator cuff rupture after a handball accident. After the operation, her shoulder had to be strictly immobilized, which initially made a longer, complete inability to work seem unavoidable.

02 Solution

Shortly after the accident, the doctor contacted the employer at an early stage. Together, an adapted activity was defined in which the patient could work exclusively with the unaffected hand. Physically demanding tasks were taken over by colleagues, while the laboratory technician concentrated on analysis and documentation.

03 Partial ability to work

Continuous support and targeted adjustments enabled the patient to gradually return to work:

• Week 1: Preparation & surgery
• Week 2-3: 0% able to work
• Week 4-5: 50% able to work
• From week 6: 80% fit for work

04 Results

• Better project execution: The patient was already able to work productively again from week 4 and made a valuable contribution, avoiding a full 3-month sick leave despite surgery and immobilization
• Significant cost savings: CHF 18,000 - CHF 30,000 for the company, as the costs for daily sickness benefits and accident insurance were significantly reduced (CHF 9,600 - CHF 16,000)
• Reduction in absences: by a total of 30 days

05 Share the success story

Source: This case study was provided by AcciMed GmbH and shortened with their permission.