Abstract
BackgroundA symptomatic os acromiale can lead to impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tendinopathy. An acromion fracture is often part of a more complex scapular trauma that needs stabilisation.MethodsWe developed a new technique using a three-dimensional (3D) model and a distal clavicle reconstruction plate to treat os acromiale and acromion fractures. Our hypothesis was that such an approach would be a useful addition to the existing techniques. First, a 3D model of the acromion was printed, then an osteosynthesis plate was pre-bent to fit the exact shape and curve of the acromion. We tested this technique and present reports on five patients, three with os acromiales and two with acromial fractures. We followed these patients during their rehabilitation and evaluated them using the Constant–Murley and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores.ResultsIn every case the fracture or non-union healed. If the surgery was performed before additional damage (such as an impingement syndrome) occurred, we saw that the patient’s pain completely disappeared. This new technique also has other advantages because the surgeon can prepare the entire operation in advance, which reduces the duration of surgery. Another advantage of using a 3D model is that it can also be used to inform the patient and the surgical team about the planned operation.ConclusionThis new technique using a preoperative patient-customized plate is a good alternative for use in open reduction and internal fixation, particularly if the patient has no other conditions.
Highlights
A symptomatic os acromiale can lead to impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tendinopathy
We have developed an alternative technique based on using a pre-bent osteosynthesis plate originally designed for the distal clavicle to achieve the correct fixation and reduction of the acromion
The postoperative radiographs and computed tomography (CT) showed a complete fusion of the fracture/os acromiale in all five cases
Summary
A symptomatic os acromiale can lead to impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tendinopathy. The pre-acromion, the meso-acromion and the meta-acromion should fuse by union of these centres This normally occurs in adolescents between 15 and 18 years old (Abboud et al, 2006; Atoun et al, 2012; Barbier et al, 2013; Boehm et al, 2003; Frizziero et al, 2012; Harris et al, 2011; Ortiguera and Buss, 2002; Pagnani et al, 2006; Peckett et al, 2004; Sahajpal et al, 2007; Spiegl et al, 2015; Yammine, 2014). Several studies have investigated its prevalence, reporting varying frequencies, most describe a frequency of 1%–15% (Ortiguera and Buss, 2002; Spiegl et al, 2015; Yammine, 2014) or 1%–30% (Harris et al, 2011; Sahajpal et al, 2007). Higher rates of os acromiale have been noted in Africans and men (Ortiguera and Buss, 2002; Sahajpal et al, 2007)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
