Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Injuries Research Articles

Dual fixation for coracoid fracture with acute acromioclavicular joint disruption: a case series

Abstract Introduction The management of acute disruption of the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) in conjunction with a concomitant coracoid fracture has been discussed. This combined orthopedic injury is uncommon because radiographs alone may not always be enough to identify the coracoid component clearly. There are different options for management, ranging from nonsurgical, single, or double fixation strategy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of a clavicular hook plate combined with a coracoid screw fixation in patients who engage in high-demand activities and athletes over a minimum of a year of follow-up. Patients and methods Following the dual fixation strategy, seven patients were followed clinically and radiologically with a mean follow-up 16 weeks, through which a rehabilitation program was adhered to. The range of motion around the shoulder, American Shoulder & Elbow Surgeons, and constant scores were utilized to evaluate patients clinically during their last follow-up visit. Furthermore, radiological assessment of the reduction of the ACJ according to coracoclavicular distance (CCD) and CCD ratio. Results The findings in this study showed a statistically significant improvement between the 3, 6, and 12-month American Shoulder & Elbow Surgeons scores, which were 39.1 ± 14, 67.4 ± 1, and 86.7 ± 5, respectively (P<0.001). The mean range of motions for active shoulder abduction and forward elevation was 171.4 ± 6.3° and 156.4 ± 12.8°, respectively. 9 ± 0.9 mm was the mean CCD, and 1.07% was the mean CCD ratio. Conclusion A stable fixation construct with significant functionality can be successfully achieved through the dual fixation strategy using a coracoid screw and hook plate with no coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction in the treatment of concomitant coracoid fracture and acute ACJ injuries in athletes and high-demand patients.

Effect of cigarette smoking on the maintenance of reduction after treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation with hook plate fixation.

The purpose of this study was to determine the association between smoking and clinical outcomes of hook plate fixation for acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries. This study retrospectively investigated 82 patients who underwent hook plate fixation for acute AC joint dislocation between March 2014 to June 2022. The patients were grouped by smoking status, with 49 in group N (nonsmokers) and 33 in group S (smokers). Functional scores and active range of motion were compared among the groups at the 1-year follow-up. Coracoclavicular distance (CCD) was measured, and difference with the uninjured side was compared at initial injury and 6 months after implant removal. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in demographic factors such as age and sex, as well as parameters related to initial injury status, which included time from injury to surgery, the preoperative CCD difference value, and the Rockwood classification. However, the postoperative CCD difference was significantly higher in group S (3.1±2.6 mm) compared to group N (1.7±2.4 mm). Multivariate regression analysis indicated that smoking and the preoperative CCD difference independently contributed to an increase in the postoperative CCD difference. Despite the radiographic differences, the postoperative clinical outcome scores and active range of motion measurements were comparable between the groups. Smoking had a detrimental impact on ligament healing after hook plate fixation for acute AC joint dislocations. This finding emphasizes the importance of smoking cessation to optimize reduction maintenance after AC joint injury. Level of evidence: III.

Assessment of Coracoclavicular Ligament Healing on MRI After Arthroscopic TightRope Fixation for Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation.

Arthroscopic-assisted fixation of acute high-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation has gained popularity in the last decade. Coracoclavicular (CC) fixation using the TightRope device is a less invasive technique. To investigate CC ligament healing and functional outcomes after arthroscopic fixation using the TightRope device for acute AC joint disruption. Case series; Level of evidence, 4. The study retrospectively analyzed the data of patients admitted for arthroscopic surgical treatment of acute AC joint injury using a single TightRope device. The data collection commenced in October 2021. The Constant-Murley (CM) score and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score were used for functional evaluation. The CC distance (CCD) was measured on plain radiographs, whereas healing of the CC ligament was evaluated on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Statistical analyses were conducted with the Mann-Whitney U test, independent t test, or paired t test, as appropriate. The analysis included 33 patients with a mean age of 37.7 years (range, 24-49 years) and a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Significant preoperative to postoperative increases were noted in both the CM and UCLA scores (from 34.1 ± 7.6 to 93.3 ± 3.6 and from 8.7 ± 2.1 to 32.9 ± 1.7, respectively; P < .0001 for both). The CCD decreased from 21.8 ± 3.02 mm preoperatively to 10.6 ± 1.2 mm postoperatively (P < .0001). All patients displayed CC ligament healing on MRI. Two patients with superficial infection and 1 case of partial reduction loss were confirmed at the end of this study. The arthroscopic TightRope technique was found to be a reliable and less invasive method of fixation for acute AC joint disruptions. The CC ligament healed adequately based on MRI evaluation, and the patients regained their preinjury activities, with favorable functional outcomes and minor comorbidities.

Coracoid Process Fracture Associated With a Distal Clavicle Fracture: A Case Report

Background. Fracture of the distal clavicle fracture associated with a coracoid process fracture is extremely rare in the practice of an orthopedic surgeon. Therefore, there is no common approach to the treatment of patients with this type of bone injuries of the shoulder girdle.&#x0D; Aim of the study to demonstrate positive experience of conservative treatment of the coracoid process fracture combined with hook plate fixation for distal clavicle fracture.&#x0D; Case presentation. We present a rare clinical case of a closed distal clavicle fracture associated with coracoid process fracture. Trauma occurred when the patient fell down the stairs on his abducted upper limb. After examination, the distal clavicle fracture was fixed with a hook plate. Intraoperatively, X-rays showed a satisfactory position of the coracoid process of the scapula. Therefore, it was decided not to fix it additionally. CT scans three months after the surgery showed bone fragments consolidation. Removal of the hook plate and screws from the clavicle was performed.&#x0D; Conclusion. Presented clinical case illustrates successful treatment result of this type of fractures without fixation of the coracoid process fracture. The hook plating allows to stabilize bone fragments and restore ligament tension, which makes this implant non-alternative for fixation of this type of injuries.

The Reliability of Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation Classification Systems: A Comparison Between the Rockwood and Kraus Classifications.

The Rockwood system for the classification of acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations has been associated with a lack of reliability. A novel system has been proposed (Kraus classification) that is based on dynamic posterior translation of these injuries. To assess the interobserver and intraobserver reliability of the Rockwood and Kraus classification systems and also to examine the impact of surgeon experience on the assessments. Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3. Included were 45 patients with acute AC joint injuries who underwent a radiographic examination using standard bilateral AP and modified Alexander views. For interobserver reliability, 6 shoulder surgeons (expert group) and 6 orthopaedic residents (novice group) reviewed the radiographs to classify injuries according to the Rockwood and Kraus classifications; for each categorization, the participants chose between nonoperative management and surgical treatment. The evaluation was repeated 6 weeks later to determine intraobserver reliability. Kappa (κ) coefficients and their 95% CIs were used to compare interobserver and intraobserver reliability for each classification system according to assessor experience. Statistical differences were considered significant when the upper and lower boundaries of the 95% CI did not overlap. The overall interobserver agreement for diagnosis (both novice and expert groups) was moderate (κ = 0.52 [95% CI, 0.51-0.54]) for the Rockwood classification and substantial (κ = 0.62 [95% CI, 0.53-0.65]) for the Kraus classification; however, no significant differences were observed between the κ values. The overall interobserver agreement for treatment selection was substantial when using both the Rockwood (κ = 0.78 [95% CI, 0.72-0.81]) and Kraus (κ = 0.77 [95% CI, 0.66-0.87]) classifications. The overall intraobserver agreement for diagnosis was substantial using both the Rockwood (κ = 0.65 [95% CI, 0.61-0.67]) and Kraus (κ = 0.73 [95% CI, 0.69-0.75]) classifications. There were no significant differences between the novice and expert groups on any of the evaluations. The Kraus system was slightly more reliable than the Rockwood system for classifying AC joint injuries both between assessor groups and overall. The level of surgeon experience had no impact on the evaluations.

Reliability of Upright Chest Radiography as a Diagnostic Screening Tool for Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations.

The standard radiographic view for diagnosing acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations is the Zanca view of both shoulders to assess superior displacement of the distal clavicle by measuring the coracoclavicular distance (CCD) and comparing it with the uninjured shoulder; however, there is no consensus on a gold standard for diagnostic measures to classify acute ACJ injuries. To compare the CCD from an upright chest radiograph with a standard Zanca view of both shoulders in patients with an ACJ dislocation. Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3. We reviewed the records of 70 patients with an ACJ dislocation between 2010 and 2021 who had both an upright chest radiograph and a Zanca view. An ACJ dislocation was classified as low grade (Rockwood types 1-3) or high grade (Rockwood type 5). The CCD was measured on the upright chest radiograph and the Zanca view by 2 independent reviewers, and the percentage of the CCD difference compared with the unaffected side (ΔCCD) was calculated and compared between the upright chest radiograph and the Zanca view. Interrater and intrarater reliability were determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient. Included were 70 patients (55 male and 15 female; mean age, 46 years). There were 29 patients (41.43%) with a low-grade injury and 41 patients (58.57%) with a high-grade injury. In the overall analysis, the ΔCCD on the upright chest radiograph and Zanca view was significantly different (130.25% ± 88.42% vs 152.69% ± 106.56%, respectively; mean difference, 22.44% [95% CI, 2.40% to 42.48%]; P = .029). The subgroup analysis revealed that the ΔCCD on the upright chest radiograph and Zanca view was significantly different for patients with a low-grade injury (60.71% ± 25.79% vs 91.46% ± 68.54%, respectively; mean difference, 30.76% [95% CI, 7.18% to 54.33%]; P = .012) but not different for patients with a high-grade injury (179.45% ± 83.87% vs 196.00% ± 107.97%, respectively; mean difference, 16.56% [95% CI, -14.06% to 47.18%]; P = .281). The intraclass correlation coefficients for the ΔCCD measurements indicated good to excellent interrater and intrarater reliability. The study findings indicated that upright chest radiography can be used as a diagnostic screening tool for high-grade ACJ dislocations, but not for low-grade ACJ injuries, compared with the Zanca view.

Coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular ligament reconstruction with a cost-effective and reproducible method: A new surgical technique

Background: Treatment of Acute Acromioclavicular joint injuries is controversial with varieties of treatment modalities. Newer treatment methods are expensive requiring additional cost and advance devices assistance. This technique demonstrates a very cost-effective (less than USD 25) method of fixing Acromioclavicular joint injuries suitable for developing nations.Methods: From Year 2021 to 2023 we have performed 14 cases (aged 35-65 years) with good results with new surgical technique that utilizes 3- and 4-hole mini stainless-steel plates with no. 5 polyester suture, anatomic landmarks drilling based on study by Nai-Feng Zhu et al. (2015), and additional secure fixation at Acromioclavicular joint. Only 2mm drill holes were used to avoid suture creep. No arthroscopy assisted device, titanium endo-buttons, tension-band, special hardware were used. All patients were counselled for strict post-op rehabilitation protocol for 3 months before full range of motion activities were allowed.Result: This surgical technique provided secure fixation at coracoclavicular joints as well as acromioclavicular joints with 2mm drill portals with minimum suture creep.Conclusion: Our technique represents an anatomical, very cost-effective, and very reproducible way for treating acute AC joint separations especially focusing on developing countries.

EVALUATION OF ARTHROSCOPIC BUTTON AND FIBER TAPE FIXATION IN ACROMIO-CLAVICULAR JOINT INJURIES

BACKGROUND: Acromio-clavicular injuries (ACI) account for 9% of all shoulder injuries. The injuries are divided into VI types according to Rockwood classification. Surgery is indicated in Type IV to VI and often in Type III injuries. The optimal surgery for these injuries is debatable, though arthroscopic fixation is increasingly being preferred due to small incisions, early rehabilitation and reduced hardware. Dog-bone button (arthroscopic button) is a broad anatomically contoured button and when used with Fiber-tape offers an excellent option to reconstruct the Acromio-Clavicular joint (ACJ). Our study is to evaluate the results of this fixation by using the Constant Score. Thirty (30) adultMETHODS: patients with Type III-V ACI were operated arthroscopically with Dog-Bone Button and Fiber-tape fixation. The patients were followed up for a period of 6 months. Constant score, range of motion of shoulder joint and Coraco-clavicular distance were taken pre-operatively and 6 months after the surgery. Twenty-two patients had RW III injury, sixRESULTS: patients had RW IV and two patients had RW V injury. The mean pre-operative Constant Score was 58.53 (±7.38) and the mean post-operative Constant Score at 6 months was 89.83 (± 9.16). The difference between constant score was statistically significant (p&lt;0.001). Mean preoperative CC distance was 20.27+ 2.3mm to 10.28 mm + 3.12mm at 6 months follow up. Similarly, the difference between pre-operative and post-operative range of motion in flexion and abduction was significant on paired data analysis (p&lt;0.001). One patient had subluxation of AC joint after surgery and had to be re- operated with a threaded K-wire. Arthroscopic Dog-bone button fixation provides good functionalCONCLUSIONS: and radiological outcome and is a viable method to reconstruct acute acromio-clavicular joint injuries.

Minimally invasive reconstruction of acute acromioclavicular joint injuries using the TwinBridge button system

IntroductionAcute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries are among the most common shoulder injuries in active young adults. The most frequently used surgical treatments include the hook plate implantation and arthroscopic treatment using flip-button systems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of treating acute ACJ injuries using a new minimally invasive implant based on a flip-button system.Material and methodsFrom January 2016 to October 2019, a total of 20 patients with acute ACJ injuries (1 × Type III, 3 × Type IV, 16 × Type V) underwent surgery using the Twinbridge implant (Smith & Nephew). It is a prefabricated construct consisting of two Endobuttons connected with an UltraTape. One button is placed under the coracoid using a special aiming device and two buttons are placed on the clavicle. Preoperatively, 1 day postoperatively, 3 months and at least 1 year postoperatively, patients were clinically examined and bilateral stress view and axial radiographs were obtained. At final follow-up, the simple shoulder test (SST), Taft score, Constant score, and ACJ instability (ACJI) score were recorded and a side-to-side ratio of the coracoclavicular (CC) distance was calculated.ResultsAll 20 patients were contacted at final follow-up at a mean of 28 (min. 13, max 50) months. Six patients were not willing to come for a clinical and radiographic examination and were contacted via telephone. All six patients were free of complaints. Another two patients free of complaints refused radiographs at final follow-up. The patients presented a mean SST of 99.6% (20 patients, min. 91.7, max. 100), Taft score of 11.6/12 points (12 patients, min. 10, max. 12), ACJI of 85.5/90 points (12 patients, min. 78, max. 90), and a Constant score of 97.1 (14 patients, min. 81.0, max. 100) for the affected shoulder. Preoperative stress view images revealed a mean side-to-side difference of the CC distance with a ratio of 1:2.34 (min. 1:1.80, max. 1:3.33). At final follow-up, CC distance was calculated with a mean ratio of 1:1.12 (min. 1.1, max. 1:1.38). Axial images showed a proper position in all cases. A “perfect” radiological result was achieved in six patients (50%) with a side-to-side CC distance of less than 10% (ratio 1:1.1 or less). A Rockwood type II result was achieved in five patients (42%) with a distance of 10 to 25% (ratio 1.11–1.25). One (8%) presented with a Rockwood type III result with a difference of more than 25% (ratio 1:1.38) and was considered a radiological failure.ConclusionsWhen used correctly, the Twinbridge implant offers good-to-excellent clinical and radiographic results using a minimally invasive surgical technique. Complication rate is comparable to other button-systems.

Is coracoclavicular ossification a complication or a good prognostic factor after surgical treatment of acromioclavicular joint injury?

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to investigate whether heterotopic ossification (HO) in the coracoclavicular (CC) space after surgical treatment of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injury is a complication or a sign of good prognosis.MethodsFifty-nine consecutive patients who underwent CC reconstruction with or without augmentation of the ACJ for acute ACJ injuries were analyzed. Postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score (CS), subjective shoulder value (SSV), and visual analog scale (VAS) results were evaluated. For radiological evaluation, HO was evaluated, and CC distances were measured.ResultsFifty-one patients (11 women and 40 men; mean age, 36 years [range, 17-68 years]) were evaluated after a mean follow-up of 3 years (range, 2-8 years). The mean ASES score at the follow-up was 82.73 (range, 51.6-100), mean CS was 85 (range, 50-100), mean SSV was 80 (range, 40-100), and mean VAS was 1.9 (range, 0-5). It was observed that the clinical outcomes (ASES, CS, SSV, VAS) of patients who developed ossification in the CC space were better than those who did not although it was not statistically significant. No statistically significant differences were found in the clinical outcomes (ASES, CS, SSV, VAS) between patients who underwent CC reconstruction without augmentation of the ACJ and those who were combined (P > .05).ConclusionHO in the CC space is a common finding following AC joint fixation injury. We suggest that HO is not a complication and might possibly have positive effects on clinical outcomes.

Subacromial Erosion After Hook Plate Fixation in Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation.

To determine the incidence of subacromial erosion, perform quantitative analysis, and identify risk factors after locking hook plate fixation for acute acromioclavicular joint injury. A retrospective case series study. A single tertiary university hospital. The study was conducted on 35 patients who had acute acromioclavicular joint injury. Patients underwent the locking hook plate fixation. The computed tomography (CT) was conducted to measure the subacromial erosion. The acromioclavicular slope (AC slope) of the unaffected side, the acromion-hook angle, the acromioclavicular anteroposterior distance (AC-AP distance), and the preoperative acromioclavicular interval of the affected side were analyzed to identify the risk factors of subacromial erosion. According to the CT findings, subacromial erosion was found in all cases, and the mean value was 5.0 mm, which is 53% of the entire acromion thickness. The AC slope (B = -0.159, P < 0.001) and AC-AP distance (B = 0.233, P = 0.004) were found to have a significant influence on postoperative subacromial erosion. The AC slope showed a negative correlation with the amount of erosion, whereas the AC-AP distance showed a positive correlation with erosion. The CT findings revealed that subacromial erosion occurred in all cases, and the mean erosion depth was about 50% of the acromial thickness. If the preoperative AC slope of the unaffected side was more acute and the AC-AP distance was larger, the incidence of subacromial erosion was higher. Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The Morphology of the Acromioclavicular Joint Does Not Influence the Postoperative Outcome Following Acute Stabilization—A Case Series of 81 Patients

PurposeTo specifically evaluate the influence of the acromioclavicular (AC)-joint morphology on the outcome after arthroscopically assisted coracoclavicular (CC) stabilization surgery with suspensory fixation systems and to investigate whether an additional open AC-joint reduction and AC cerclage improves the clinical outcome for patients with certain morphologic AC-joint subtypes.MethodsPatients with an acute acromioclavicular joint injury, who underwent arthroscopically assisted CC stabilization with suspensory fixation systems with or without concomitant AC cerclage between January 2009 and June 2017 were identified and included in this retrospective cohort analysis. AC-joint morphology was assessed on preoperative radiographs and categorized as “flat” or “non-flat” (“oblique”/“curved”) subtypes. After a minimum of 2 years of follow-up, postoperative Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain were collected. A subgroup analysis of clinical outcomes depending on the surgical technique and morphological subtype of the AC joint was performed.ResultsEighty-one patients (95% male, mean age 35 ± 12 years) could be included at a mean follow-up of 57 ± 14 months. Radiographic assessment of AC-joint morphology showed 24 (30%) cases of flat type, 38 (47%) cases of curved type, and 19 (23%) cases of oblique morphology. Postoperatively, no clinically significant difference could be detected after the treatment of AC joint injury via CC stabilization with or without concomitant AC cerclage (VASrest: P = .067; VASmax: P = .144, ASES: P = .548; SANE: P = .045). No clinically significant differences were found between the surgical techniques for the flat morphologic subtype (VASrest: P = .820; VASmax: P = .251; SANE: P = .104; ASES: P = .343) or the non-flat subtype (VASres: P = .021; VASmax: P = .488; SANE: P = .243, ASES: P = .843).ConclusionsIn arthroscopically assisted AC stabilization surgery with suspensory fixation systems for acute AC-joint injury, the AC-joint morphology did not influence the postoperative outcome, independent of the surgical technique. No clinical benefit of performing an additional horizontal stabilization could be detected in our collective at mid-term follow-up.Level of EvidenceLevel IV, therapeutic case series.

Internal splintage of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation using polyester suture: Experience from a Nigerian orthopaedic hospital.

Various surgical options have been described for acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) disruption. Dynamic fixation of these fractures is the most favoured option. However, no single modality of treatment has been adjudged to be the best option so far. The goal of this study was to present the outcome of internal splintage of acute ACJ disruption using polyester suture without clavicle drilling in our setting. This prospective study was done at the National Orthopedic Hospital, Dala, Kano, on those with acute ACJ injuries between January 2016 and June 2021. Forty five patients (36 males and 9 females) had internal splintage of acute ACJ disruption using polyester-5 suture loops around the coracoid process and clavicle without bone drilling. The average age of the patients in this study was 31.51 ± 11.43 years, while the age group with highest frequency was 21-30 years, accounting for 17 (37.8%) of all the patients. The mean pre-operative and post-operative disability (QuickDASH) scores were 80.08 ± 10.75 and 3.23 ± 3.58, respectively. There was a significant difference between pre-operative and post-operative QuickDASH scores with P < 0.001. Internal splintage of acute ACJ dislocation using polyester-5 suture loop without bone drilling is effective and safe.

Comparison of trans-articular Kirschner wire fixation and TightRope System for the treatment of acromioclavicular joint injuries

Aim: Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries are common among the young and middle-aged population. The management of Grade III ACJ injuries is still controversial. The purpose of the present study was to compare the clinical results and complication rates of trans-articular Kirschner (K) wire fixation and the TightRope System for surgically treated ACJ injuries.&#x0D; Material and Method: Patients with Grade III or more ACJ injuries surgically treated for acute ACJ injuries were included in the study. The patients were grouped according to the fixation method; the patients treated with the TightRope System were called Group 1 (n=17). The patients treated with trans-articular K-wire fixation were called Group 2 (n=21). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Constant-Murley (CS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, and shoulder range of motion (ROM) values were evaluated, and the complications were recorded and compared between the two groups.&#x0D; Results: Thirty-eight patients (7 females, 31 males) were included in the study with a mean age of 33±9.04. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic and preoperative variables. ASES (P=0.400), CS (P=0.172), VAS (P=0.234), and ROM values were similar between the two groups. The rate of complications was significantly higher in Group 2 (P=0.025). &#x0D; Conclusion: Trans-articular K-wire fixation and the TightRope System have similar clinical scores and ROM values; on the other hand, trans-articular K-wire fixation has significantly higher complication rates.

Arthroscopy-Assisted All-Suture Coracoclavicular and Acromioclavicular Joint Stabilization in Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Injuries

The existing literature agrees on surgical management for Rockwood grade IV and V injuries, but there is no consensus which type of surgery is the most appropriate one. More than 150 surgeries have been described for this condition in the literature. In an injury of less than 3 weeks, most surgeons prefer suture-button devices for coracoclavicular stabilization. Recent biomechanical studies have demonstrated that coracoclavicular stabilization provides good vertical stability but poor horizontal stability of acromioclavicular joint. Hence, they recommend acromioclavicular stabilization along with coracoclavicular stabilization. The use of a suture-button device for coracoclavicular stabilization requires special implants and instruments along with high surgical skills to drill precisely placed holes in the clavicle and the coracoid in order to avoid fractures from the drill hole. Due to relatively smaller clavicle and coracoid in Asian population, making holes in the clavicle and the coracoid has increased risk of fracture. We describe a technique in which no drill holes are made in the clavicle or the coracoid. In our technique, suture tape is used, which is looped around the coracoid and the clavicle, and the limbs are tied over the clavicle to maintain the coracoclavicular distance. The remaining limbs of suture tape is further looped through the tunnels made in acromion and tied over the acromion to augment the acromioclavicular ligament. The potential advantages of this technique are no costly implant and instruments are required, avoidance of complications associated with drill holes in coracoid and clavicle, both coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular joints are stabilized, direct repair of the acromioclavicular ligament can be performed, and no need of second surgery for implant removal.

Functional and Radiographic Outcomes of Intraoperatively Decreasing the Coracoclavicular Distance to 50% of the Unaffected Side in Stabilization of Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Injury: A Retrospective Evaluation.

Background:The postoperative failure rate of acromioclavicular (AC) joint fixation using the coracoclavicular (CC) stabilization technique is high. Studies have reported that compared with normal intraoperative anatomic reduction, intraoperative overreduction of the AC joint is more successful in achieving a satisfactory anatomic radiographic outcome at 1- to 2-year follow-up.Purpose:To evaluate the functional and radiographic outcomes and complications in patients with acute AC joint injury who underwent combined CC stabilization and AC capsular repair in which the CC distance was intraoperatively decreased to 50% of the unaffected side.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:In this retrospective study, we collected and analyzed the data of patients with an acute AC joint injury (Rockwood type 5) who underwent combined CC stabilization and AC capsular repair during which the CC distance was decreased 50% compared with the unaffected side. At 2-year follow-up, we evaluated functional outcomes (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] score), radiographic outcomes (alignment of the AC joint in the vertical and horizontal planes, tunnel widening), and complications (infection, clavicular fracture).Results:The study included 20 patients with a mean ± SD age of 42.20 ± 10.10 years. The mean follow-up period was 33.75 ± 11.50 months. At the 2-year follow-up, the mean ASES score was 95.13 ± 5.61. The overreduction alignment, anatomic alignment, and loss reduction alignment rates were 0% (0/20 patients), 95% (19/20 patients), and 5% (1/ 20 patients), respectively. No statistically significant difference was found in the mean CC distance between the affected and unaffected sides on radiographic evaluation. The mean medial clavicular tunnel width and lateral clavicular tunnel width were 5.03 ± 0.68 mm and 4.47 ± 0.67 mm, respectively. None of the patients experienced fractures or infections.Conclusion:Excellent functional and radiographic outcomes and no complications were seen at 2-year follow-up in patients with acute AC joint injury who underwent combined CC stabilization and AC capsular repair with the CC distance intraoperatively decreased to 50% of the unaffected side.

BiPOD arthroscopically assisted bidirectional stabilisation technique for high-grade acromioclavicular joint injury: two-year clinical and radiological outcomes

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the intermediate-term clinical and radiological outcomes for acute, unstable acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries treated with the arthroscopically assisted BiPOD stabilisation technique.MethodsTwenty-three patients who sustained acute, unstable ACJ injuries were included in this prospective study. We recorded demographics, injury classification, time to surgery, clinical scores, radiological outcomes and complications; each patient completed a minimum of 2 years post-operative observation.ResultsMean follow-up was 26 months (range, 24—34). Clinical outcomes scores demonstrated good 2-year results: relative Constant score, 97.9/100; ACJ Index, 89.4/100; Subjective Shoulder Value, 92.4/100 and Taft = 11.1/12. Final C–C distance showed a mean of 0.7 mm (SD ± 1.8 mm) at 2 years. Complication rate was 9%.ConclusionThe BiPOD technique shows excellent, reliable intermediate-term results with a favourable complication rate compared to existing techniques; it provides a comprehensive surgical option for the stabilisation of acute ACJ injuries restoring both vertical and horizontal stability.

Arthroscopic Coracoclavicular Ligament Stabilization Using Coracoid Cortical Suspension in Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Injury; Precision of Drill Tunnel

Acute acromioclavicular joint separation is a common injury of the shoulder. There are several methods for treating this condition; however, there is no gold standard established. Herein, we propose an arthroscopic method for the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint separation using a simple cortical suspension device at the coracoid base via a transclavicular–transcoracoidal tunnel and tieing the suture at the clavicle. This method has the advantages of making a precision drilling tunnel using small implants and small stab incisions, with better cosmetic results and less implant irritation.

Acromioclavicular Joint Injuries in Professional Ice Hockey Players: Epidemiologic and MRI Findings and Association With Return to Play.

Background:Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries are common in ice hockey players and are traditionally evaluated with conventional radiography, which has recognized limitations in the accurate characterization of the spectrum of soft tissue injuries and severity/grade of injury sustained.Purpose:To evaluate the epidemiologic, clinical, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in professional ice hockey players who have sustained acute ACJ injuries.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:A retrospective review was performed of professional National Hockey League (NHL) players referred for MRI evaluation of acute ACJ injuries. All MRI scans were assessed for status of the ACJ, ligamentous stabilizers, and surrounding musculature. MRI-based overall grade of ACJ injury (modified Rockwood grade 1-6) was assigned to each case. Data regarding mechanism of injury, player handedness, clinical features, and return to play were evaluated.Results:Overall, 24 MRI examinations of acute ACJ injuries (23 patients; mean age, 24 years) were reviewed. We found that 50% of injuries were sustained during the first period of play, and in 75% of cases, injuries involved the same side as player shooting handedness. Analysis of MRI scans revealed 29% (7/24) grade 1 ACJ injuries, 46% (11/24) grade 2 injuries, 21% (5/24) grade 3 injuries, and 4% (1/24) grade 5 injuries. Trapezius muscle strains were seen in 79% and deltoid muscle strain in 50% of cases. Nonoperative management was used for 23 injuries; 1 patient (grade 5 injury) underwent acute reconstructive surgery. All players successfully returned to professional NHL competition. Excluding cases with additional injuries or surgery (n = 3) or convalescence extending into the offseason (n = 3), we found that the mean return to play was 21.4 days (7.2 games missed). No statistically significant difference was observed in return to play between nonoperatively treated grade 3 injuries (mean, 28.3 days) and grade 1 or 2 injuries (mean, 20.1 days). However, grade 3 injuries were associated with a greater number of NHL scheduled games missed (mean, 12.7) compared with lower grade injuries (mean, 6.1) (P = .027).Conclusion:The spectrum of pathology and grading of acute ACJ injuries sustained in professional ice hockey can be accurately assessed with MRI; the majority of injuries observed in this study were low grade (grades 1 and 2). Although grade 3 injuries were associated with a greater number of games missed, similar return-to-play results were observed between nonoperatively treated grade 3 and grade 1 or 2 ACJ injuries.

Surgery improves the clinical and radiological outcome in Rockwood type IV dislocations, whereas Rockwood type III dislocations benefit from conservative treatment.

Despite the available classifications, diagnostics and treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries are still vague and challenging for trauma and shoulder surgeons. This study aimed to evaluate the dynamic radiographic as well as clinical outcome of operatively and conservatively treated Rockwood (RW) type III and IV ACJ dislocations. All patients with RW type III and IV ACJ dislocations between 2009 and 2016 (n = 226) were included in this retrospective data analysis with a prospective follow-up examination. According to their injury classification, patients were subdivided in an operative and conservative treatment group. Examiner blinded clinical evaluation including the constant score (CS), American shoulder and elbow surgery (ASES) score, the acromioclavicular joint instability (ACJI) score, visual analog scale (VAS), bilateral force measurements, and posttraumatic/postsurgical sequelae were assessed. Fluoroscopic evaluations including dynamic stability assessment with functional axillary views were performed for every patient. For follow-up examination (mean 4.8years ± 0.3 SEM) 56 patients (29 RW type III, 27 RW type IV) were available. In patients with RW type III ACJ dislocations [operative (n = 10); conservative (n = 19)] prolonged duration of treatment was seen in operatively treated patients (p < 0.05). Clear improvement could be shown for the ACJI score (p < 0.05) and coracoclavicular (CC) and acromioclavicular (AC) distance (p < 0.05) in the operative group. In patients with RW type IV ACJ dislocations [operative (n = 18); conservative (n = 9)] superior clinical results were found in operated patients with highly significant differences for the ACJI score (p < 0.001). Radiographic dynamic horizontal analysis showed nearly normalized anteroposterior translation in operated patients (p < 0.05). No differences were found regarding arthroscopic or open procedures. Accurate diagnostics including sufficient dynamic stability assessment with functional axillary views are strongly advised for patients with ACJ dislocations. Conservative treatment should be recommended for patients with RW type III ACJ dislocations, due to shorter duration of treatment with good clinical results but lacking operative risks. In patients with RW type IV ACJ dislocations, surgical treatment is recommended because of superior clinical and radiological results. Level III.