Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Research Articles

Patient-reported, clinical and radiological factors associated with the result after non-surgical management of acute AC joint dislocation Rockwood type III and V.

The treatment of Rockwood type III and V acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations is controversial, and an individualized treatment algorithm is yet to be developed. The objective of this study was to investigate the association of demographical, clinical, patient-reported and radiological variables with the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) score and risk of surgery. Inclusion criteria for this prospective cohort study were patients aged 18-60 with an acute AC joint dislocation with >25% increase in the coracoclavicular distance on bilateral Zanca radiographs. Patients were treated non-surgically with 3 months of home-based training and the option of delayed surgical intervention. The outcomes were the WOSI score and surgery yes/no. Demographical, clinical, patient-reported (WOSI and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index [SPADI]) and radiological variables were collected at baseline and 6 weeks after the injury and investigated for association with the outcomes at 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. Ninety-five patients with Rockwood type III/V AC joint dislocation were included. Pre-injury participation in overhead/collision sports was a risk factor for surgery with an odds ratio of 5 (p = 0.03). Reduced range of motion (ROM) at baseline was associated with reduced WOSI scores and increased risk of surgery. At 6 weeks, reduced ROM, increased SPADI and increased pain during cross-over were associated with the outcomes. Radiological measurements were not correlated with the result. At the 6 weeks follow-up, patients eventually requiring surgery could be detected with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 94% based on a SPADI score of >30 and a ROM ≤ 140° in shoulder flexion or abduction. ROM was the only variable consistently associated with both WOSI and risk of surgery. Six weeks after the injury, it was possible to detect patients in need of surgery based on ROM and SPADI with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 94%. Level II.

Long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of arthroscopic acromioclavicular stabilization for acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

Standard open acromioclavicular (AC) stabilization is associated with increased postoperative complications including deltoid injury, infection, tunnel complications, loss of reduction, and wound/cosmetic concerns. Arthroscopy may offer superior visualization and advantages that limit these risks. The aim of this prospective non-randomized study is to evaluate advantages and long-term reliability of arthroscopic AC stabilization. Thirty-two patients with acute grade III, IV and V AC dislocations underwent arthroscopic AC reconstruction with long-term assessment by clinical AC examination, Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, visual analog scale, Specific AC Score and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores. Radiographs verified conservation of initial reduction and presence of coracoclavicular (CC) ossifications. Complications, revision rate and satisfaction were assessed and compared to the literature. Mean follow-up time was 67.6 months. All clinical outcome scores improved and differences were statistically significant (P<0.001). Initial postoperative radiographs consistently showed complete reduction. Two patients experienced relapse to grade II AC dislocation without clinical implications. In total, 71.8% showed CC ossifications without functional impairment, and in 31.3% concomitant injuries were observed. Reintervention rate was 9.4% and 96.7% of patients were satisfied with procedure outcomes. Arthroscopic stabilization for acute AC joint dislocations offers satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes, and our results show that the arthroscopic technique is reliable in the long run. We report better reduction in maintenance, fewer complications and similar reoperation rates compared to other techniques.

Concomitant Glenohumeral Pathologies in Patients with Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations: How Do Acute and Chronic Instabilities Differ?

Background: Concomitant glenohumeral pathologies may be present in patients with acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations. This study aims to record and compare the prevalence and treatment of CGP in cases with acute and chronic ACJ dislocations. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional binational, bicentric study included patients that underwent arthroscopically assisted stabilization for acute (group A) and chronic (group C) ACJ dislocations. Intraoperatively, CGPs and eventual treatments (debridement and reconstructive measures) were recorded. Results: The study included 540 patients (87% men; mean age 39.4 years), with 410 (75.9%) patients in group A and 130 (24.1%) in group C. Patients in group C were older (p < 0.001). The CGP prevalence was 30.7%, without a difference between groups A and C (p = 0.19). Supraspinatus tendon (SSP) and labral lesions were most common. Within group C, CGPs were more prevalent in surgery-naïve patients (p = 0.002). Among 49 patients with previous surgical treatment, CGPs tended to be more common in patients with prior open surgery than arthroscopically assisted surgery (p = 0.392). Increased CGP prevalence was associated with higher age (r = 0.97; p = 0.004) (up to 63% in the oldest age group, but also 17% for youngest age group) and higher in cases with Rockwood type-IIIB injuries compared to type-V injuries (p = 0.028), but type-IIIB injuries included more group C cases (p < 0.001). The most frequently found CGPs were treated by debridement rather than reconstructive interventions (SSP and labrum: p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: This study shows that one in three patients with ACJ instabilities has a CGP, especially elderly patients. Most of the CGPs were treated by debridement rather than constructive interventions.

High Vertical and Horizontal Stability at Short-Term Follow-Up After an All-Endoscopic Double Cerclage Endobutton Technique for Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Separations

PurposeThe aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes in the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) separations using an all-endoscopic double cerclage endobutton technique compared to an arthroscopic-assisted single bundle endobutton technique. The secondary aim was to analyze the complication, failure and revision rate of both procedures. Material and methodsAll patients with acute ACJ separations Rockwood IIIB and V who were operated on using an all-endoscopic double-cerclage technique (2019-2022) or an arthroscopic-assisted single bundle technique (2017-2019) were included. The follow-up period was at least 12 months. Clinical and radiographic assessment was performed at follow-up. Complications, failures, and the revision rate were also investigated. ResultsTwenty-eight patients (14 double cerclage group, 14 single bundle group, all male) with an average age of 37 (IQR: 15) years were available for follow-up after 45 (IQR: 38) months. The median time between trauma and surgery was 7 (IQR: 8) days. Very good clinical results without significant differences were observed in both groups (Constant score: 94 (IQR: 12) vs. 95 (IQR: 15), p=0.427, ACJ Instability score: 95 (IQR: 11) vs 87 (IQR: 22), p=0.210). All patients returned to sport, with an average sports level of 95% compared to the preoperative status. The single bundle group showed significantly increased anteroposterior instability (6 vs. 0, p=0.006). A total of 5 complications occurred (2 vs. 3), leading to 1 revision surgery in each group. ConclusionExcellent clinical results and high vertical and horizontal stability can be achieved with the all-endoscopic double cerclage technique. Horizontal instability occurred significantly more frequently with the single bundle technique. The prolonged operation time in the double cerclage group had no negative impact on postoperative outcomes, including complication and failure rates, and a learning curve to reduce this prolonged operative time should be considered. Level of EvidenceIII, retrospective comparative clinical series

Acromioclavicular joint dislocation Rockwood type III and V show no difference in functional outcome and 91% recovered well without the need for surgery.

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations are common injuries, but the indication for and timing of surgery is debated. The objective of the study was to evaluate the results after acute AC joint dislocations Rockwood type III and V treated nonsurgically with the option of delayed surgical intervention. This is a prospective cohort study with clinical, radiological and patient-reported outcome assessment at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after acute AC joint dislocation. Patients aged 18-60 with acute AC joint dislocation and a baseline panorama (Zanca) radiograph with an increase in the coracoclavicular distance of >25% compared to the uninjured side were eligible for inclusion. All patients were treated nonsurgically with 3 months of home-based training and with the option of delayed surgical intervention. The primary outcome was the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI). Secondary outcomes were surgery yes/no and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Ninety-five patients were included. Fifty-seven patients were Rockwood type III and 38 patients were type V. There were no statistically significant differences in WOSI and SPADI between patients with type III and V injuries at any time point. Nine patients (9.5%) were referred for surgery; seven type III and two type V (ns). Ninety-one percent of patients with acute AC joint dislocation Rockwood type III and V recovered without surgery and there were no differences in outcome scores between type III and V at any time point. Level IV.

Acromioclavicular joint dislocation and concomitant labral lesions: a systematic review.

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations frequently co-occur with intra-articular glenohumeral pathologies. Few comprehensive studies have focused on labral tears specifically associated with AC joint trauma. This systematic review will address this gap. A comprehensive electronic search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar (pages 1-20) spanning from 1976 to May 19, 2023. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review, consisting of three retrospective studies and four case series. These studies collectively involved 1,044 patients, of whom 282 had concomitant labral lesions. The pooled prevalence of intra-articular labral injuries associated with acute AC joint dislocation was 27%. The prevalence of these labral lesions varied significantly between studies, ranging from 13.9% to 84.0% of patients, depending on the study and the grade of AC joint dislocation. Various types of labral tears were reported, with superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesions being the most common. The prevalence of SLAP lesions ranged from 7.2% to 77.4%, with higher grades of AC joint dislocations often associated with a higher prevalence of SLAP tears. Moreover, grade V dislocations exhibited a complete correlation with SLAP tears. The studies yielded contradictory findings regarding older age and higher grades of AC joint dislocation as risk factors for concurrent labral lesions. This review underscores the frequent association between labral lesions and AC joint dislocations, particularly in cases of lower-grade injuries. Notably, SLAP lesions emerged as the predominant type of labral tear.

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 &amp; 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 &amp; Elbow Surgeons scores, which were 39.1 ± 14, 67.4 ± 1, and 86.7 ± 5, respectively (P&lt;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.

Mid-term clinical and sonographic outcomes of minimally invasive acromioclavicular joint reconstruction: mini-open versus arthroscopically assisted

IntroductionThe current literature describes various operative stabilization strategies which achieve good clinical outcomes after acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation. The aim of this study was to compare the mid-term clinical and sonographic treatment outcomes after minimally invasive mini-open and arthroscopic reconstruction.Materials and methodsWe conducted a retrospective two-center study of patients with acute ACJ dislocation. Surgical treatment was performed using either a mini-open approach (MIOP) or an arthroscopic technique (AR). The primary outcome parameters of this study were the sonographically measured acromioclavicular (ACD) and coracoclavicular distances (CCD). Secondary outcome parameters included the Constant–Murley score (CS), range of motion (ROM), postoperative pain scale (VAS), return to daily routine, return to sports, complications, as well as operative revisions.ResultsAfter a mean follow-up of 29 months, 30 patients were included in this study with an average age of 41.3 ± 14.8 years (MIOP) and 41.2 ± 15.4 years (AR). The sonographic ACD (MIOP 9.11 mm vs. AR 8.93 mm, p = 0.41) and CCD (MIOP 25.08 mm vs. AR 24.36 mm, p = 0.29) distances showed no statistically significant differences. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference when compared to the contralateral side (p = 0.42). With both techniques, patients achieved excellent clinical outcome parameters without statistically significant differences in CS (MIOP 95 vs. AR 97, p = 0.11) and VAS (MIOP 1.76 vs. AR 1.14, p = 0.18). The return to daily activity and return to sport rates did not differ. There were neither complications nor revisions in both groups.ConclusionBoth minimally invasive techniques for acute ACJ stabilization achieved excellent clinical and sonographic outcomes without one technique being statistically superior to the other.

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.

The V angle compliments radiographic assessment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations by differentiating between Rockwood types III versus V and by considering dynamic horizontal translation in coronal radiographs.

Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations are usually graded radiographically according to Rockwood, but differentiation between Rockwood types III and V may be ambiguous. The potentially clinically relevant horizontal instability is barely addressed in coronal radiographs. It was hypothesized that a new radiologic parameter (V angle) would complement ACJ diagnostics on anteroposterior radiographs by differentiating between cases of Rockwood III and V while also considering the aspect of dynamic horizontal translation (DHT). Ninety-five patients with acute ACJ dislocations (Rockwood types III and V) were included retrospectively between 2017 and 2020. On anteroposterior views (weightbearing: n = 62, non-weight-bearing: n = 33), the coracoclavicular (CC) distance and the newly introduced V angle for assessing scapular orientation were measured bilaterally. This angle is referenced between the spinal column and a line crossing the superior scapular angle and the crossing point between the supraspinatus fossa and the medial base of the coracoid process, reported as the side-comparative difference (non-injured side *minus* injured side). DHT on Alexander views was divided into stable, partially unstable or completely unstable. The V angle on the injured side alone (mean 50.0°; 95% confidence interval (CI), 48.6°-51.3°) showed no correlation with the side-comparative CC distance [%] (r = - 0.040; n.s.). Thus, the V angle on the non-injured side was considered, displaying a normal distribution (n.s.) with a mean of 58.0° (95% CI, 56.6°-59.4°). The side-comparative V angle showed a correlation with the side-comparative CC distance (r = 0.83; p < 0.001) and was able to differentiate between Rockwood types III (4.7°; 95% CI, 3.9°-5.5°; n = 39) and V (10.3°; 95% CI, 9.7°-11.0°; n = 56) (p < 0.001). A cut-off value of 7° had a 94.6% sensitivity and an 82.1% specificity (area under curve, AUC: 0.954; 95% CI, 0.915-0.994). The side-comparative V angle was greater for cases with complete DHT (8.7°; 95% CI, 7.9°-9.5°; n = 78) than for cases with partial DHT (4.8°; 95% CI, 3.3°-6.3°; n = 16) (p < 0.001). A cut-off value of 5° showed a sensitivity of 84.6% and a specificity of 66.7% (AUC 0.824; 95% CI, 0.725-0.924). The scapular-based V angle on anteroposterior radiographs distinguishes between Rockwood types III and V as well as cases with partial or complete DHT. Diagnostic study. Level II.

More Than 90% Satisfactory Results After Non-Surgical Treatment of Type III and V Acute AC Joint Dislocation. A Prospective Cohort Study With 1-Year Follow-up of 95 Patients Managed Non-Surgically with the Option of Delayed Surgical Intervention

More Than 90% Satisfactory Results After Non-Surgical Treatment of Type III and V Acute AC Joint Dislocation. A Prospective Cohort Study With 1-Year Follow-up of 95 Patients Managed Non-Surgically with the Option of Delayed Surgical Intervention

Invivo analysis of the circles measurement supports its use in evaluating acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

Classification and treatment of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations according to the Rockwood classification is controversial. The "circles measurement" on Alexander views was proposed to enable a clear assessment of displacement in ACJ dislocations. However, the method and its ABC classification were introduced on a Sawbones model based on exemplary Rockwood scenarios without soft tissue. This is the first invivo study to investigate the circles measurement. We aimed to compare this new measurement method with the Rockwood classification and the previously described semiquantitative degree of dynamic horizontal translation (DHT). A total of 100 consecutive patients (87 men and 13 women) with acute ACJ dislocations between 2017 and 2020 were included retrospectively. The mean age was 41 years (range, 18-71 years). ACJ dislocations on panoramic stress views were classified according to Rockwood type (type II, n = 8; type IIIA, n = 9; type IIIB, n = 24; type IV, n = 7; and type V, n = 52). On Alexander views, where the hand of the affected arm rested on the contralateral shoulder, the circles measurement and the semiquantitative degree of DHT (none, n=6; partial, n=15; or complete, n=79) were assessed. Convergent and discriminant validity of the circles measurement (including its ABC classification according to displacement) with the coracoclavicular distance and Rockwood types, as well as the semiquantitative degree of DHT, was tested. The circles measurement showed a strong correlation with the coracoclavicular distance according to the Rockwood classification (r=0.66, P<.001) and differentiated between Rockwood types according to the ABC classification, including types IIIA and IIIB. The circles measurement correlated with the semiquantitative method of assessing DHT (r=0.61, P<.001). Measurement values were smaller in cases without DHT than in cases with partial DHT (P=.008). Cases with complete DHT had respectively larger measurement values (P<.001). In this first invivo study, the circles measurement allowed differentiation between Rockwood types according to the ABC classification in acute ACJ dislocations with a single measurement and correlated with the semiquantitative degree of DHT. On the basis of these validations of the circles measurement, its use for evaluating ACJ dislocations is recommended.

Management of Acute High-Grade Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations: Comparable Clinical and Radiological Outcomes After Bidirectional Arthroscopic-Assisted Stabilization With the Single Low-Profile Suture Button Technique Versus Double-Suture Button Technique

This study was to compare the two-year clinical and radiological outcomes of an arthroscopic-assisted bidirectional stabilization procedure using single low-profile (LPSB) or double suture button (DSB) techniques with additional percutaneous acromioclavicular (AC) cerclage fixation for patients with acute high-grade AC joint dislocation. This retrospective cohort study compared male patients aged between 18-56 years with acute high-grade AC joint dislocation fixed with either a LPSB or DSB technique. Patients were examined at least 24 months post-surgery. Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Taft (TF) and Acromioclavicular Joint Instability scores (ACJI) were evaluated. Coracoclavicular difference, ossification, AC joint osteoarthritis and dynamic posterior translation (DPT) were assessed on bilateral anteroposterior stress radiographs and modified Alexander views. The revision rate due to implant conflict and duration of surgery were reported. Group outcome differences were analyzed using standardized hypothesis tests. 28 patients aged 39.2 (LPSB) and 36.4 years (DSB) (p=0.319; CI -2.77 - 8.34) were eligible per cohort. The follow-up was 30.5 (LPSB) and 37.4 months (DSB) (p=0.02; CI -12.73 - -1.08). LPSB patients rated a significantly higher SSV (93.2% vs. 81.9% (DSB); p=0.004). TF and ACJI scores were similar between groups. Coracoclavicular difference markedly decreased from 12 mm to 3 mm for both cohorts (p<0.001). Ossification was identified in over 85% in both cohorts (p=0.160; CI -0.77 - 0.13) and osteoarthritis in 21.4% (LPSB) and 39.3% (DSB) (p=0.150). Persistent DPT was found in around 30% for both cohorts (p=0.561; CI -0.26 - 0.48). The revision rates were 0% (LPSB) and 7% (DSB) (p=0.491). LPSB surgery was shorter (59.7 vs. 71.5 mins [DSB]) (p=0.011). The results of the LPSB and DSB techniques with additional percutaneous AC cerclage fixation showed comparable outcomes with excellent clinical and satisfactory radiological results. The assessment of the subjective patients satisfaction was in favor of the LPSB technique and no postoperative revision event was observed following this procedure.

Comparison of Effectiveness and Safety in Treating Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation with Five Different Surgical Procedures: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.

This network meta-analysis aims to evaluate the comparative effectiveness and safety of suture anchors (SA), tendon grafts (TG), hook plates (HP), Tight-Rope (TR), and EndoButton (EB) in the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation. The Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were searched from their inception date to June 3, 2022. Studies included all eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies with the comparison of five different fixation systems among SA, TG, HP, TR, and EB were identified. All studies were reviewed, performed data extraction, and assessed the risk of bias independently by two reviewers. The primary outcomes are Constant-Murley score (CMS) improvement for assessing clinical efficacy, and complications. The second outcomes are visual analog scale (VAS) for assessing pain relief and the coracoclavicular distance (CCD) for assessing postoperative joint reduction. Version 2 of the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2) and the risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions (ROBINS-I) were used to assess the RCTs and non-randomized trials, respectively. The continuous outcomes were presented as mean differences (MD), and risk ratios (OR) were used for dichotomous outcomes, both with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Surface under the cumulative ranking curves (SUCRA) results were calculated to offer a ranking of each intervention. We identified 31 eligible trials, including 1687 patients in total. HP showed less CMS improvement than TR and EB in both the Network Meta-analysis (NMA) and pairwise meta-analysis. HP also showed less CMS improvement than SA in NMA. For pain relief, HP performed worse than TR both in pairwise meta-analysis and NMA. No significant differences were found for the measured value of CCD. Both TR and EB showed a lower incidence of complications than HP in pairwise meta-analysis. The rank of SUCRA for CMS improvement was as follows: SA, TR, EB, TG, and HP; for pain relief: TR, EB, TG, SA, and HP; for CCD: HP, TR, SA, EB, and TG. For complications, HP showed the highest rank, followed by TG, EB, TR, and SA. SA shows better clinical effectiveness and reliable safety in the treatment of acute ACJ dislocation. Although HP is the most widely used surgical option currently, it should be carefully taken into consideration for its high incidence of complications.

Medial placement of trapezoid tunnel leads to higher reduction loss in acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation treated with anatomic coracoclavicular fixation

Aim To analyze the association between clavicular tunnel positioning and postoperative reduction loss in patients with acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation treated with anatomic coracoclavicular (CC) fixation using double clavicular tunnels. Methods A retrospective review of patients with AC joint dislocation, treated with anatomic CC fixation using double clavicular tunnels, was conducted. Patients with pre-operative, immediate post-operative, and final follow-up Zanca-view X-rays were included. On each X-ray, the obtained measures included: distance from lateral border of clavicle to trapezoid and conoid tunnels, distance between tunnels, clavicle length, and CC distance of affected and un-affected sides. Loss of reduction was calculated as CC distance difference between immediate and final post-operative X-rays. Association between reduction loss and tunnel positioning was analyzed. Results Conoid, trapezoid and tunnel ratios were 24% ± 4, 15% ± 3, and 9% ± 2, respectively. Significant reduction loss was seen in 21(45.7%) patients. Significantly higher probabilities of reduction loss were associated with trapezoid tunnels placed medial to 24 mm (30.8% vs 65.0%, OR 4.2 (IC95%: 1.2–14.4), p: 0.024) or 15% of the clavicle length (32.1% vs 66.7%, OR 4.2 (IC 95%: 1.2–14.9), p: 0.025). Conclusions Trapezoid tunnels placed medial to 24 mm or 15% medial to clavicle length could lead to higher probabilities of significant reduction loss. These findings support the importance of clavicular tunnels’ proper placement for decreasing significant reduction loss.

Economic Reliable Arthroscopic Technique for Reduction and Fixation of Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation

Separation of the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) is a common orthopaedic injury among athletes involved in contact sports and victims of motor vehicle accidents. ACJ disruptions are common in athletes. Treatment is guided by the level of injury; grade 1 and 2 injuries are managed nonoperatively. Grades 4-6 are managed operatively, whereas grade 3 is an area of controversy. Several operative techniques have been described to restore anatomy and function. We present a technique that’s safe, economic, and reliable in the management of acute ACJ dislocation. It allows intra-articular glenohumeral assessment and relies on a coracoclavicular sling. This is an arthroscopic-assisted technique. It entails a small transverse or vertical incision over distal clavicle 2 cm away from ACJ, which enables us to reduce the ACJ and maintain reduction with a k-wire, checked by the C-arm. Diagnostic shoulder arthroscopy is then performed to assess the glenohumeral joint. The rotator interval is liberated and the coracoid base is exposed, and PROLENE sutures are then passed anterior to the clavicle medial and lateral to the coracoid. It is the used to shuttle polyester tape and ultrabraid as a sling under the coracoid. A tunnel is then made in the clavicle, then one end of suture is passed through the tunnel whereas the other end remains anterior. Several knots are made to ensure it is secured, then the deltotrapezial fascia is closed as a separate layer.

Evaluation of the short-term resultsof surgical treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation using fiberwire suture

The study aims to evaluate the results of recovering the function of the shoulder and the anatomy of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint through surgical treatment by using fiberwire suture augmentation for acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation. The procedure involves open reduction of the AC joint, anchoring the lateral clavicle to the coracoid with fiberwire suture according to the anatomical position of the trapezoid and conoid ligaments. At the same time, temporarily fix AC joint with K-wires. The results showed that 91.3% of patients recovered from good to very good function. Results of anatomical recovery based on postoperative radiographic monitoring showed that 79.3% of patients did not dislocate, and 15.5% had sub-dislocation. Thus, the surgical treatment of acute AC joint dislocation with fiberwire suture gave good results in shoulder function and anatomical AC joint recovery.

Mini-open vs. arthroscopic double tight-rope reconstruction after acute AC-joint dislocation: a comparison in functional outcome and sports activity.

In athletes, acromioclavicular joint disruptions account for up to 50% of all shoulder injuries. In high-grade injuries, surgery is favored to ensure a correct restoration of the joint, especially in young athletes. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical, radiological and sport related outcomes of the arthroscopic stabilization with the fixation of the AC joint in a mini-open approach. 19 patients treated arthroscopically (ASK) and 26 patients with an acute AC-joint dislocation Rockwood V who had undergone the mini-open (MO) surgery were included. Constant Murley Score (CMS), Taft Score (TS) and the Simple Shoulder Tests (SST) were evaluated. The sports activity level was determined according to Valderrabano and the athlete's recovery of their athletic activity level after surgery according to Rhee. Furthermore, all available X-ray images were analyzed. Patients in the ASK group achieved an average score of 11.7 ± 0.6 points in the SST, 10.3 ± 1.8 points in the TS and 91.2 ± 11.8 points in the CMS. On average, patients in the MO group achieved results of 10.5 ± 1.4 points in the SST, 11.7 ± 0.7 points in the TS and 91.6 ± 9.8 points in the CMS. The ASK group showed significant difference regarding the CC distance in side comparison (Δ = 3.6mm), whereas no significant difference was found in the MO group (Δ = 0.8mm). In comparison of both groups, the posterior as well as the combined translation were significantly greater in the ASK group than in the MO group (posterior: ASK: 24.8mm, MO: 19.3mm, combined: ASK: 29.1mm, MO: 20.9mm). Residual horizontal instability was greater in the ASK group (43%) than in the MO group (32%). Similar results were achieved in sports activity and the recovery of athletic activity (Valderrabano: ASK: 2.8, MO: 2.6; Rhee: ASK: 1.6, MO: 1.5). Both techniques prove to be effective for the stabilization of high-grade AC-joint disruptions in athletes and showed excellent clinical results. From a radiographic standpoint, the mini-open procedure appears superior to the arthroscopic technique. After mini-open surgery postoperative loss of correction is less common and greater horizontal stability is achieved. The results also suggest the mini-open technique is superior to the arthroscopic procedure when aiming to restore the athlete's original level of sports activity.

No correlation exists between coracoid tunnel widening and loss of reduction after arthroscopic acromioclavicular fixation using tightrope system

PurposeTo detect the widening of the tunnel of the coracoid process after arthroscopic fixation of acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation using the TightRope system and its correlation with loss of reduction and functional scores.MethodsFrom 2016 to 2018, a prospective study was performed on twenty-three patients with acute grade III–V ACJ dislocation. Arthroscopic TightRope repair of the ACJ was performed. Coracoid tunnel widening was measured by CT, and the coracoclavicular distance was measured on the radiographs immediately postoperatively and at 12 months. The Constant Shoulder Score, Oxford Shoulder Score, Nottingham Clavicle Score and Visual analog scale were used as outcome measures at 12 months.ResultsThe coracoid tunnel diameter to horizontal coracoid diameter ratio increased from 22.8 ± 3.7% immediately postoperatively to 38.5 ± 5.5% at 12 months (p < 0.001). The coracoclavicular (CC) distance showed an increase from a mean of 10.8 ± 1.7 mm to a mean of 11.8 ± 2.5 at 12 months (p < 0.001). There was no correlation between the increase in the coracoclavicular distance and the patients’ functional clinical scores or coracoid tunnel widening.ConclusionCoracoid tunnel widening and radiological loss of reduction occur after arthroscopic fixation of acute ACJ dislocation with the TightRope system. However, they do not correlate with each other or with the functional scores of the patient.Level of evidenceLevel IV.