Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Research Articles

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.

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. 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. 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). 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.

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.

Management of Acromioclavicular Injuries - Current Concepts.

Treatment of a patient with acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injury remains challenging for orthopedic surgeons. To date, there is debate over the optimal management of ACJ injuries. This review provides an overview of assessment, treatment, and future perspectives for the treatment of and research into ACJ. A scoping literature review was performed. The search was built including the following terms: acromioclavicular joint injuries or dislocation, and pathophysiology, etiology, anatomy, treatment, and trauma mechanism. The papers with evidence levels 1-3 were included in the current narrative review. A total of 2242 potential relevant studies were identified in the searches. After removal of duplicates, 432 studies were screened on their titles and abstracts, resulting in 35 studies being included in the review, based on the eligibility criteria. The management of acute and chronic ACJ injuries is not clarified in the current literature. However, there is currently insufficient high-level evidence for the overall treatment options for ACJ injuries. If surgical intervention is decided upon in consultation with the patient, the complications may not outweigh the benefits. The multitude of existing techniques is indicative of the uncertainty surrounding this issue, and no gold standard has yet been established for treatment methods. An ideal classification would include not only vertical and horizontal instability, but also the severity of kinematic alterations of the shoulder complex. This indicates the need for a new and improved diagnostic tool for the classification of ACJ injuries.

SURGICAL TREATMENT OF ACROMIOCLAVICULAR DISLOCATION: HOOK PLATE VERSUS SUTURE BUTTON.

We aimed to compare the functional and radiographical outcomes of reconstruction of acute unstable acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation using Hook Plate (HP) versus Suture Endobutton (SE) fixation techniques. Forty-six consecutive patients with grade III to V ACJ dislocation according to Rockwood classification who underwent either HP or SE fixation in the period between January 2017 and June 2020 were evaluated. The treatment modalities were divided into either HP or SE fixation. The radiological assessment included standard anterior-posterior (AP) views to evaluate coracoclavicular (CC) distances for vertical reduction. CC distances were grouped as preoperative (CC1), early postoperative (CC2), and late postoperative (CC3). The distance variance between CC2 and CC3 was referred as ΔCC (CC3 - CC2). A statistically significant difference was found in ΔCC between the two groups (p=0.008). ΔCC was significantly higher in the SE group compared to the HP group (p<0.05). The Constant and UCLA Scores of patients in the SE group were found to be significantly higher than in the HP group patients. Clinical outcomes were more satisfactory in patients with acute unstable ACJ dislocation who underwent SE compared to HP procedures, at the end of the first year. Evidence Level IV; Case Series.

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.

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.

Clinical and radiologic outcomes of the modified phemister procedure with coracoclavicular ligament augmentation using mersilene tape versus hook plate fixation for acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation

BackgroundThe clinical superiority of surgical treatment for acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of the modified Phemister procedure with CC ligament augmentation using Mersilene tape to those of hook plate fixation for acute AC joint dislocation.MethodsIn this study, patients who received modified Phemister surgery with CC ligament augmentation using Mersilene tape (PM group) or hook plate fixation (HK group) for acute unstable AC joint dislocation with a minimum 5-year follow-up period were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical outcomes were evaluated according to blood loss during surgery, surgical duration, visual analogue scale (VAS), Constant-Murley score (CMS), University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder rating scale, and the occurrence of complications. Radiological outcomes were assessed from radiographs according to multiple parameters, including CC distance maintenance, acromion osteolysis, and the presence of distal clavicle osteolysis.ResultsA total of 35 patients completed follow-up for more than 5 years and were analyzed in this study (mean = 74.08 months). There were 18 patients in the PM group and 17 in the HK group. The PM group exhibited similar improvement in functional outcome to the HK group. Regarding radiological outcomes, the HK group had a superior performance in terms of CC distance maintenance, of statistical significance (CCDR: 94.29 ± 7.01% versus 111.00 ± 7.69%, p < 0.001) after a one-year follow-up period. However, there were 4 cases of acromion osteolysis and 2 cases of distal clavicle osteolysis in the HK group.ConclusionHook plate fixation was found to be superior to the modified Phemister technique with CC ligament augmentation using Mersilene tape in terms of CC distance maintenance, but there was no significant difference in the functional outcome after 5 years of follow-up. Both surgical methods are reliable options for the treatment of acute AC joint dislocation. Modified Phemister surgery with CC ligament augmentation using Mersilene tape is a relatively lower-cost option for acute AC joint dislocation without the need of a second surgery for implant removal.

Arthroscopic-Assisted Double-Bundle Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction Using Cortical Fixation Buttons With Suture Tape Provides Superior Vertical Stability Than the Single-Bundle Reconstruction for Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation

This study aimed to compare clinical and radiologic outcomes between single- and double-bundle arthroscopic-assisted coracoclavicular (CC) ligament reconstruction using cortical fixation buttons with suture tapes for acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation. Patients who underwent arthroscopic-assisted CC ligament reconstruction using cortical fixation buttons with suture tapes for acute AC joint dislocation from July 2014 to March 2019 were identified. This study included patients treated for acute AC joint dislocation within 2 weeks after an injury, with a Rockwood classification of III or V and at least 2 years of follow-up. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the reconstruction technique: group I (single-bundle technique) and group II (double-bundle technique). The clinical outcomes were compared using the American Shoulder Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score, and visual analog scale for pain score between the 2 groups. On the plain radiograph, the CC interval ratio (CCIR) was measured to evaluate maintenance of CC interval fixation. Postoperative complications, including reduction failure, were also documented. Fifty-eight patients (26 in group I, 32 in group II) were enrolled. There were no significant differences in CCIR between the 2 groups preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. However, the CCIR of group I was significantly greater than that of group II 6 months postoperatively (group I: 160.5% ± 48.5%, group II: 125.4% ± 38.9% at 6 months postoperatively, P= .01; group I: 164.0% ± 57.3%, group II: 123.2% ± 35.9% at the last visit, P= .01). Despite radiologic differences, the clinical outcomes demonstrated no significant differences between 2 the groups (ASES score: 93.5 ± 5.2 in group I, 94.4 ± 4.5 in group II, P= .54; Constant score: 92.9 ± 5.3 in group I, 94.8 ± 4.3 in group II, P= .16). Reduction failure occurred in 4 patients (15.3%) in group I and in 1 patient (3.2%) in group II (P= .16). Arthroscopic-assisted double-bundle CC ligament reconstruction using cortical fixation buttons with suture tapes provided superior vertical stability than the single-bundle technique. Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Rockwood type III is the most common type of acromioclavicular joint dislocation: A prospective cohort study investigating the incidence and epidemiology of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations in an urban population.

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations are common, but basic epidemiological features and sub-classification are not well investigated. The aim of the study was to investigate the incidence and epidemiology of acute AC joint dislocations in the capital region of Denmark. All patients with acute AC joint dislocation admitted to the emergency departments at 3 University Hospitals serving a population of 549,225 residents were prospectively registered from January to December 2019. Patients with trauma to the shoulder, pain from the AC joint and increased coracoclavicular distance on radiographs were included and classified according to Rockwood's classification. Data on age, sex and mechanism of injury were registered. A total of 106 patients, male:female ratio 8.6:1, were included. Rockwood type III was most common accounting for 59/106(55.7%) of the injuries. The incidence was 19.3 per 100,000 person-years at risk (PYRS). The age distribution was bimodal peaking at the ages of 20-24 and 55-59 years. The most common mechanism of injury was sports, 80/106, with cycling accounting for 51/106. Rockwood type III was the most common type of AC joint dislocation constituting 55.7% of the injuries. The incidence was 19.3 per 100,000 PYRS. Young and middle-aged males were at highest risk and most injuries occurred during sports.

Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopy-Assisted Modified Triple Endobutton Plate Fixation in Rockwood Type III Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: A Retrospective Study.

ObjectiveThe common triple Endobutton plate (CTEP) fixation is a lengthy procedure that is associated with high failure rates. Therefore, we used arthroscopy to improve the Endobutton fixation method by shortening the duration of surgery and reducing operative complications. This study explored the safety and effectiveness of arthroscopy‐assisted modified triple Endobutton plate (MTEP) fixation in Rockwood type III managing acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation.MethodsThis was a retrospective single‐center study involving 73 patients with Rockwood type III acute ACJ dislocation treated between January 2016 and January 2021. The 73 patients were classified into three groups, the acromioclavicular hook plate (ACHP) group (22 cases), CTEP group (24 cases) and MTEP group (27 cases), based on the type of surgical treatment they received. Clinical outcome data from the patient records, including the Constant–Murley score (CMS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (ASES) and University of California at Los Angeles shoulder rating scale score (UCLA), were retrospectively reviewed. The scores were assessed before surgery and at the third and twelfth month after surgery. The clavicle‐coracoid (CC) distance on the affected side was estimated from imaging scans taken before surgery, on the second day after surgery, and within the third and twelfth month after surgery. The student's t‐test was used to compare normally distributed data for independent samples, while homogeneity of variance test was used to compare normally distributed data among multiple groups. Non‐normally distributed data were compared using Mann–Whitney rank‐sum tests.ResultsThere were no differences in age, gender, body mass index (BMI), dislocated side, trauma etiology, and duration of follow‐up among the three groups. There was also no significant difference in the duration of surgery between the ACHP and MTEP groups, although the duration in the two groups was shorter than in the CTEP group (P < 0.05). The duration of hospitalization for the MTEP group was significantly shorter than for the CTEP group which was in turn shorter than for the ACHP group (both P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative CMS, ASES, and UCLA scores between the CTEP and MTEP groups but the score for the two groups differed significantly from those of the ACHP group (all Ps < 0.05). In addition, there was no significant difference in CC distance among the three groups after surgery (P > 0.05).ConclusionArthroscopic reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligament using MTEP fixation to manage acute Rockwood type III ACJ dislocation is minimally invasive, and is associated with rapid functional recovery, few complications and satisfactory early clinical results.

Managing acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation during COVID 19 pandemic by minimally invasive technique with suture anchor and miniplate: A pilot study

BackgroundAcromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is common in sportsmen and physically active population. Its management depends upon the grade of injury and functional demands of the patient. A variety of surgical procedures have been described with different limitations and advantages. The present study has assessed the clinical and radiological outcome of acute AC joint dislocation managed with a 3.5 mm Titanium suture anchor and 2 mm miniplate construct which requires lesser dissection, surgical time and thus contact with the patient as mandated by COVID-19 pandemic. MethodsWe enrolled 10 patients of Rockwood type-III, IV and V acute AC joint injury (<3 weeks old) reporting at this hospital from Feb 2020 to May 2021. All were tested for COVID-19 using reverse transcriptase polymer chain reaction test (RTPCR) and managed by closed/open reduction and fixation with a 3.5 mm Titanium Suture Anchor and a 2 mm Titanium miniplate construct. Follow-up was done at 3, 6 and 9 month post-operatively. ResultsThe average age of patients was 31 yrs. RTPCR test for COVID-19 was negative in all patients. Median surgical time was 25 min (Interquartile Range[IQR] = 16–34 min) and median follow-up duration was 36 weeks (IQR = 33–39 weeks). Median visual analogue scale score and IQR at pre-operative, 3 month, 6 month and 9 month follow-up was 7(IQR = 6–8), 3.5(IQR = 2.5–4.5), 2(IQR = 0) and 1(IQR = 0), respectively. Median constant score at pre-operative, 3 month, 6 month and 9 month follow-up were 34(IQR = 25–43), 65.5(IQR = 60.5–70.5), 82.5(IQR = 77.5–87.5) and 88(IQR = 81–95). There was significant improvement in clinical status (non parametric-Friedman test p < 0.001). Radiographs showed no loss of reduction, fracture or implant failure till last follow-up. ConclusionsMinimally invasive technique with a 3.5 mm Ti-suture anchor and 2 mm plate is an easy, fast and reliable construct for the management of acute AC dislocation in physically active population.

Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes for Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Fixation are Similar With or Without Allograft Augmentation

PurposeTo compare functional outcomes, complications, and revision rates between allograft reconstruction and graftless fixation techniques for the treatment of Rockwood grades III-V acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation.MethodsPatients who underwent graftless or allograft surgery acutely (≤6 weeks from injury) for Rockwood type III-V AC joint separations from 2012 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinic notes and operative reports were identified to confirm the surgical technique and presence of complications including revision, infection, and fracture. In addition, postoperative radiographs were assessed to determine any instances of loss of adequate reduction, and several patient-reported outcomes were collected.ResultsIn total, 115 patients (52 allograft, 63 graftless) were included in this study with a mean follow-up of 3.8 ± 2.5 years. There were no differences between allograft and graftless patients regarding rates of loss of reduction >5 mm (11.1% graftless vs 21.2% allograft), revision (3.2% vs 1.9%), infection (1.6% vs 3.9%), fracture (3.2% vs 7.7%), or total complication (7.9% vs 9.6%) rates (all P > .05). Patient-reported outcome measures also did not significantly differ between groups. Multivariate analysis found that increased time from injury to repair and increased Rockwood injury grade (grades IV and V) were associated with increased CC distance at postoperative follow-up (P = .008, .050, and .047, respectively).ConclusionMultivariate analysis found that patients who underwent acute AC joint fixation without allograft augmentation had similar functional outcomes, complications, and revision rates compared with patients who underwent AC joint reconstruction with allograft.Level of EvidenceLevel III, retrospective comparative study.

No difference in clinical outcome at 2-year follow-up in patients with type III and V acromioclavicular joint dislocation treated with hook plate or physiotherapy: a randomized controlled trial.

The need for operative treatment of acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is unclear. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to compare the outcomes after operative treatment with a hook plate with the outcomes after nonoperative treatment of acute Rockwood type III and type V AC joint dislocations separately. The inclusion criteria were patients aged 18-65 years with an acute type III or type V AC joint dislocation with the availability to start treatment within 3 weeks after trauma. All patients received the same standardized outpatient rehabilitation protocol and were followed up for 24 months. Assessments were based on radiographs, clinical examination findings, and questionnaires. The primary outcome was the Constant score (CS). The secondary outcomes were as follows: Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), QuickDASH score (abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire), shoulder pain at rest and during movement rated using a visual analog scale, EQ-5D (European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions) score, patient satisfaction, cosmesis, complications, and adverse events. The 4 groups were compared using 1-way analysis of variance and intention to treat. The included patients (N=124) (mean age, 40 years [range, 18-64 years]; 91% male patients) were randomized, stratified by type, to nonoperative treatment (type III, n=33; type V, n=30) or operative treatment with a hook plate (type III, n=30; type V, n=31) at a single center. Three patients randomized to physiotherapy dropped out before any follow-up measures, leaving 121 patients in the study. Complete clinical follow-up data were obtained from 118 patients at 24 months. At 3 months, patients in both nonoperatively treated groups had a significantly better mean CS, SSV, and QuickDASH score and had less pain at rest and during movement compared with patients treated operatively. At 6, 12, and 24 months, there were no significant differences in the CS, SSV, QuickDASH score, pain, or EQ-5D score between the groups regardless of intervention. At 24 months, the mean CS was 88 for nonoperatively treated type III patients vs. 91 for operatively treated type III patients and was 90 vs. 91 for type V patients (P=.477). At final follow-up, patients had regained 97% of the mean CS comparing the uninjured and injured shoulders and 86% of the patients rated the result as excellent or good. Eleven patients assigned to nonoperative treatment (18%, 6 type III and 5 type V) underwent surgery within 19 months. Both the nonoperative and operative treatment groups had very good restoration of shoulder function and patient satisfaction at 24 months, and operative treatment did not lead to better outcomes compared with nonoperative treatment. In conclusion, our study does not support surgery with a hook plate in patients with acute Rockwood type III or type V AC joint dislocations.

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.