High-grade Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations Research Articles

Time-sensitive injuries for the sports medicine surgeon - "Sports Medicine Trauma", Part 1: Upper Extremity.

Skeletal fractures are traumatic injuries that are widely accepted as requiring acute treatment to avoid long-term disability and dysfunction. There are a number of soft-tissue injuries or non-traditional fractures, frequently treated by sports medicine surgeons, which additionally require treatment in an expedited fashion in order to optimize healing and function. Sports medicine injuries of the lower extremity requiring acute treatment include, but are not limited to, irreducible shoulder dislocations, acute traumatic rotator cuff tears, posterior sternoclavicular joint dislocations, high grade acromioclavicular joint dislocations, pectoralis major tendon ruptures, distal biceps tendon ruptures, and triceps tendon ruptures. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the sports medicine injuries of the upper extremity which require acute/urgent management to facilitate optimal treatment.

Clavicular Hook Plate versus Dog-Bone Technique for Acute High-Grade Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation – A Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing Clinical Outcome Scores, Complications and Costs

Abstract Background Arthroscopically assisted coracoclavicular (CC) ligament fixation techniques have been promoted as providing superior outcomes for the treatment of acute high-grade acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations. Nevertheless, there is a lack of high-level evidence for clinically relevant benefits. At our institute, orthopaedic surgeons use an arthroscopically assisted coracoclavicular ligament fixation technique (DB), while general trauma surgeons use a clavicular hook plate (cHP) technique. Aims The aim of the study was to compare clinical outcomes, complication rates and costs between the two groups. Methods The hospital database was searched for patients treated for acute traumatic high-grade (Rockwood Typ ≥III) ACJ dislocation using either a cHP or arthroscopically assisted DB technique between 2010 and 2019. Seventy-nine patients could be included (56 patients in the cHP group and 23 in the DB group). QuickDASH scores, subjective shoulder value (SSV) scores, pain scores (numerical pain rating scale 10) and complication rates were retrospectively collected through phone interviews and by screening patient charts as well as surgical reports. Costs per patient were obtained from the hospital's accounting system. Results Mean follow-up was 54±33.7 and 45±21.7 months in the cHP and DB group, respectively. QuickDASH and SSV scores did not differ but patients in the cHP group reported significantly lower pain scores (p=0.033). More patients reported hypertrophic or disturbing scars (p=0.49) and sensibility disturbances (p=0.007) in the cHP group. Three patients suffered from a frozen shoulder in the DB group (p=0.023). Conclusions Patient-reported outcomes are excellent after long-term follow up for both techniques. There are no clinically relevant differences in clinical outcome scores based on our results and a review of the literature. Both techniques certainly have their benefits regarding secondary outcome measures.

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.

Anatomic coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction with triple flip-buttons leads to good functional outcomes and low reduction loss: a case series.

The management of acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation remains controversial. Recently, anatomic coracoclavicular (CC) fixation with a double clavicular tunnel and three flip-buttons has shown promising results. This study aimed to evaluate functional and radiological outcomes in patients with high-grade AC joint dislocation treated with anatomic CC fixation using double clavicular tunnels and three flip-buttons. A retrospective, unicentric study was performed. The study included patients with high-grade AC joint dislocation who underwent surgery with anatomic CC fixation using double clavicular tunnels and three flip-buttons. Demographic data were obtained from medical records. A functional evaluation using subjective shoulder value (SSV), visual analog scale (VAS), and disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) questionnaires was performed, and an evaluation of preoperative and postoperative comparative Zanca view images was performed. Factors associated with functional outcomes and radiological AC reduction were analyzed. A total of 83 patients completed follow-up and were included in the analysis. The mean SSV, VAS, and DASH scores were 92.8, 0.8, and 6.4, respectively. Patients who had complications experienced significantly worse functional outcomes (DASH: P=0.037). Suboptimal final AC reduction was observed in nine patients (11.1%), and significantly more frequently in patients older than 40 years (P=0.031) and in surgeries performed more than 7 days after injury (P=0.034). There were two reoperations (2.4%). Anatomic CC fixation with a double clavicular tunnel and three flip-buttons leads to good functional outcomes, low complication rates, and high rates of optimal AC reduction. Level of Evidence: Level IV; Case series.

DOUBLE BUTTON FIXATION SYSTEM FOR THE TREATMENT OF ACUTE HIGH-GRADE ACROMIOCLAVICULAR JOINT DISLOCATION

Background: Acromioclavicular joint injuries represent the spectrum of soft tissue disruptions. These injuries usually occur in young males associated with athletic activities in which a direct blow to the lateral aspect of the shoulder occurs. Athletes belonging to the population at risk individuals, especially those who play football, rugby, or hockey. Conservative management is still considered a better modality for type 1, type 2, and some type 3 injuries. This prospective interven Materials and methods: tional study was conducted on patients who underwent surgery for AC joint dislocation. Mini-open surgery with a double-button xation technique was performed. Rockwood classication types 4-6 were included in the study. Proper pre-operative radiographs were obtained for better planning and management. Follow-up was taken at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. A total of 24 patients were included in the Results: study, with a mean age of 32.54 years. Among them 19(79.16%) were male and 5(20.83%) were females. According to Rockwood classication, 18(75%) patients belonged to type 4 injuries and 6(25%) patients to type 5 injuries. The mean VAS score at the nal follow-up was 0.16±0.38 which was signicantly improved from the pre-operative value of 6.87±1.15. The improvement in DASH score was from 19.6±2.66 preoperatively to 0.35±1.42 at 12 months postoperatively. There were no complications associated with the procedure. Acute traumatic Conclusion: high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocations should be treated with operative methods. Double button xation device using a mini-open technique provides adequate exposure, better anatomical xation, and excellent functional outcomes.

Clavicular hook plate for acute high-grade acromioclavicular dislocation involving Rockwood type V: clinical and radiological outcomes and complications evaluation

BackgroundThe surgical treatment of high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocation remains a matter of debate. Clavicular hook plate internal fixation was widely used in the treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation because of its easy-to-master surgical technique. This study aimed to evaluate outcomes using hook plate fixation for acromioclavicular dislocation. MethodsA consecutive series of 57 patients with acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation involving Rockwood type V were treated between November 2013 and September 2019 using hook plate fixation. The functional outcomes (using the visual analogue score, Constant-Murley score, and University of California Los Angeles score), the quality of surgical reduction (using the coracoclavicular distance), and post-operative complications were assessed with about 46 months of follow-up.ResultsThe mean Constant-Murley score increased from 72.6 before surgery to 87.6 at final follow-up. The mean University of California Los Angeles score was 14.1 pre-operatively and 31.6 at final follow-up. Meanwhile, the visual analogue scores were significantly reduced from 3.4 pre-operatively to 1.3 post-operatively. The coracoclavicular distance decreased from 19.4 mm pre-operatively to 10.9 mm at the last follow-up. Post-operative functional and radiological outcomes were significantly improved compared with pre-operative outcomes (P < 0.01). The overall excellent and good result was 35.1% (20/57) and 54.1% (31/57), respectively. At follow-up, the overall complication rate was 15.8% (9/57) including subacromial impingement (three patients), acromial osteolysis (three patients), reduction loss (one patient), acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis (one patient), and calcification (one patient).ConclusionHook plate fixation was a viable treatment approach, and achieved good clinical outcomes in the treatment of acute acromioclavicular dislocation involving V. But some complications of hook plate fixation should not be ignored.

Arthroscopically assisted single tunnel reconstruction for acute high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocation with an additional acromioclavicular joint cerclage.

Purpose of this study was to demonstrate that a single tunnel reconstruction of high-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint instabilities with implants of the second generation is sufficient for stabilisation, especially in combination with an AC cerclage. Patients with an acute AC-joint dislocation type Rockwood III-B and V were included. Besides clinical follow-up examination, radiographs were analysed. The functional outcome measures were Constant Score (CS), Taft score (TS), ACJI score and patient's satisfaction. Horizontal instability was evaluated by clinical examination and radiological with an Alexander view. Thirty-five patients with a mean follow-up of 29months were included. Ninety-seven per cent were satisfied with their result, with an average Subjective Shoulder Value of 90%. The CS averaged at 90 ± 10 points, TS at 11 ± 1 points and ACJI at 78 ± 18 points. Radiologically, 3 of 29 patients (10%) showed a persisting horizontal instability. The coracoclavicular (CC) distance improved from 22 preoperative to 10mm postoperative, which was comparable to the contralateral side (10mm, p = 0.103). At follow-up the CC distance increased to 13mm (p = 0.0001). AC-joint stabilisation with a single tunnel reconstruction using a second-generation implant results in good to excellent clinical results with high patient satisfaction. The additional AC augmentation improves stability in horizontal instable AC-joints and is recommended in all high-grade AC joint stabilisations. Nonetheless, reduction was slightly lost over time due to an elongation or suture failure of the coraco-clavicular fixation. IV.

Clinical and radiological outcome of acute high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocation: A retrospective cohort study on Hook plate versus arthroscopic assisted single coracoclavicular tunnel with DogBone™ button dual FiberTape® construct

PurposeHook plate (HP) is a popular implant of choice in the management of highgrade acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations. Recently, suspensory loop systems have drawn significant interest with comparable results and additionally does not warrant implant removal. However, no studies have compared the outcomes of HP vis-a-vis Dog Bone TM Button with dual FiberTape® (DB). Methods38 patients who underwent HP or Arthroscopic assisted single tunnel DB fixation to stabilize high-grade ACJ dislocations were retrospectively included in study for clinically and radiological evaluation at a minimum follow up of one year. American Shoulder and Elbow Society and Constant Murley scores were used for clinical assessment. The radiological evaluation was done by assessing quality of reduction, measuring coracoclavicular distance (CCD), and extent of subacromial erosion. ResultsFor final follow up evaluation, both HP and DB group had 16 patients each. The mean follow-up was 55.38 ± 10.9 and 32.88 ± 14.0 months in HP and DB group, respectively. No significant difference in mean ASES (p=0.71) and CM score (p=0.62) was found between the two groups. The DB group revealed higher CCD at the final follow-up compared to the HP group (p=0.01). Although statistically insignificant, there were more subluxations and dislocations in the DB group (37.5%) compared to the HP group (25%). The subacromial erosion was noted in all cases of the HP group at time of implant removal. ConclusionBoth groups revealed satisfactory functional and radiological outcome. However, the DB group showed a higher tendency of loss of reduction.

Hybrid coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular reconstruction in chronic acromioclavicular joint dislocations yields good functional and radiographic results.

Optimal treatment of chronic unstable acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations (stage 3-5 according the Rockwood classification) is still debated. Anatomic coracoclavicular (CC) reconstruction is a reliable option in terms of two-dimensional radiographic reduction, clinical outcomes, and return to sports, but there remain concerns regarding anterior-posterior stability of the AC joint with CC ligament reconstruction alone. The aim of the present study was to describe the mid-term results of a new hybrid technique with CC and AC ligament reconstruction for chronic AC joint dislocations. Twenty-two patients surgically treated for chronic AC joint dislocations (grade 3 to 5) were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were assessed before surgery and at final follow-up with the Constant-Murley score (CMS) and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score. The CC vertical distance (CCD) and the CCD ratio (affected side compared to unaffected side) were measured on Zanca radiographs preoperatively, at 6months postop and at final follow-up. The same surgical technique consisting in a primary fixation with a suspensory system, coracoclavicular ligaments reconstruction with a double loop of autologous gracilis and acromioclavicular ligaments reconstruction with autologous coracoacromial ligament was performed in all cases. Twenty-two shoulders in 22 patients (19 males and 3 females) were evaluated with a mean age of 34.4 ± 9years at the time of surgery. The mean interval between the injury and surgery was 53.4 ± 36.7days. The mean duration of postoperative follow-up was 49.9 ± 11.8months. According to the Rockwood classification, there were 5 (22.6%) type-III and 17 (77.2%) type-V dislocations. Mean preoperative ASES and CMS were 54.4 ± 7.6 and 64.6 ± 7.2, respectively. They improved to 91.8 ± 2.3 (p = 0.0001) and 95.2 ± 3.1 (p = 0.0001), respectively at final FU. The mean preoperative CCD was 22.4 ± 3.2mm while the mean CCD ratio was 2.1 ± 0.1. At final FU, the mean CCD was 11.9 ± 1.4mm (p = 0.002) and the mean CCD ratio was 1.1 ± 0.1 (p = 0.009). No recurrence of instability was observed. One patient developed a local infection and four patients referred some shoulder discomfort. Heterotopic ossifications were observed in three patients. The optimal treatment of chronic high-grade AC joint dislocations requires superior-inferior and anterior-posterior stability to ensure good clinical outcomes and return to overhead activities or sports. The present hybrid technique of AC and CC ligaments reconstruction showed good clinical and radiographic results and is a reliable an alternative to other reported techniques. Level IV.

High Early-onset acromioclavicular secondary pathologies after acute arthroscopic joint reduction: a cohort study.

The research aim was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of early secondary acromioclavicular (AC) joint disease in patients undergoing acute arthroscopic AC joint reduction and fixation and early complications of acute surgical treatment in patients with high-grade AC joint dislocation. Overall, 102 patients diagnosed with Rockwood type V AC joint dislocation and undergoing arthroscopic coracoclavicular fixation were included. Early clinical and radiological complications were evaluated, as well as risk factors of secondary AC joint pathology. Twenty-nine patients (28%) presented with a secondary AC joint pathology, with 24 and 5 cases of osteolysis and osteoarthritis, respectively. The main complication was a loss of reduction of ≥ 1mm (78%). Patients aged > 55years were more likely to develop a secondary AC joint disease (odds ratios (OR) = 10.1, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.42 - 72.55, p = 0.021). Patients with osteolysis (OR = 3.2, 95% CI 1.16 - 9.27, p = 0.025) or loss of reduction of > 5mm (OR = 7.4, 95% CI 2.31 - 24.08, p = 0.001) were more likely to develop AC joint pain. Patients with an initial over-reduction were less likely to develop a subluxated AC joint (OR = 0.033, 95% CI 0.0021-0.134, p = 0.001) CONCLUSION: Age > 55years and female sex were identified as risk factors of early-onset secondary AC joint disease. Osteolysis and a loss of reduction of > 5mm were risk factors of AC joint pain but not of revision surgery. The main early complication was a loss of reduction of ≥ 1mm. An initial over-reduction of the distal clavicle was a protective factor to avoid AC joint subluxation.

Acute high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocation patients treated with titanium cable insertion under a homemade guider

BackgroundsTo describe a new technique for implanting a double-bundle titanium cable to treat acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation via the new guider, and evaluate clinic outcomes.MethodsA retrospective study of patients treated for acute high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocation from June 2016 to January 2020 in our trauma center, twenty patients with AC joint dislocation were managed with double-bundle titanium cable. It includes the following steps: (1) Put the guider under the coracoid close to the cortical; (2) drill proximal clavicle; (3) place the titanium cable; (4) perforate distal clavicle, (5) reset the acromioclavicular joint and lock titanium cable; and (6) suture the acromioclavicular ligament. An independent reviewer conducted functional testing of these patients, including the use of coracoclavicular distance (CCD), visual analog scale (VAS) scores, and Constant–Murley scores (CMS).ResultsAll patients are presented following at a median duration of 15 months (12-24months) after the surgery. All patients based on X-ray evaluation and clinic evaluation. The median CCD was 7.5 (6–14) mm, the VAS score was 0.55 (0-2), the CMS score was 95.5 (92-99). One patient had subluxation again at the final follow-up based on X-ray examination.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that the AC joint fixation anatomically with double-bundle titanium, acquired excellent outcomes in terms of the recovery of shoulder joint function and radiographic outcomes. It has a low complication rate and need not remove the hardware.

Mid-Term Outcomes of Arthroscopically-Assisted Anatomic Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction Using Tendon Allograft for High-Grade Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations

The purposes of this study were to assess clinical and radiographic outcomes of arthroscopically-assisted, anatomic coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction using tendon allograft (AA-ACCR) for the treatment of Rockwood type III-V injuries at minimum 2-year follow-up and to perform subgroup analyses of clinical and radiographic outcomes for acute versus chronic and type III versus type IV-V injuries. In this retrospective study of prospectively collected data, patients who underwent primary AA-ACCR for the treatment of type III-V dislocations and had minimum 2-year follow-up were included. Preoperative and postoperative patient-reported outcome scores (PROs) were collected, including American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Single Numeric Assessment Evaluation score, Short Form-12 Physical Component Summary, Quick Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand score, and patient satisfaction. Preoperative and postoperative coracoclavicular distance (CCD) was obtained. PROs and CCD were reported for the total cohort and for the subgroups. Complication and revision rates were demonstrated. In total, 102 patients (10 women, 92 men) with a mean age of 45.0 years (range, 18-73 years) were included. There were 13 complications (12.7%) resulting in revision surgery. After exclusion of revised patients, PROs were available for 69 (77.5%). At mean follow-up of 4.7 years (range, 2.0-12.8 years), all PROs improved significantly (P < .001). Median patient satisfaction was 9.0 (interquartile range, 8.0-10.0). Median preoperative to postoperative CCD decreased significantly (P < .001). Subgroup analyses revealed significant improvements in all PROs and CCD from preoperative to postoperative for both acute and chronic, and type III and type IV-V dislocations (P < .05) with no significant differences in postoperative PROs and satisfaction between (P > .05). AA-ACCR for high-grade acromioclavicular joint injuries resulted in high postoperative PROs and patient satisfaction with significant improvements from before to after surgery in those who did not undergo revision surgery. Furthermore, subgroup analyses revealed that acute and chronic, and type III and type IV-V injuries benefitted similarly from AA-ACCR. Level IV; therapeutic case series.

Comparison of Hook Plate Fixation Versus Arthroscopic Coracoclavicular Fixation Using Multiple Soft Anchor Knots for the Treatment of Acute High-Grade Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations

To compare the clinical and radiologic outcomes of arthroscopically assisted coracoclavicular (CC) fixation using multiple soft anchor knots versus hook plate fixation in patients with acute high-grade Rockwood type III and V acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations. This retrospective study included 22 patients with acute Rockwood type III and V AC joint dislocations who underwent arthroscopic fixation or hook plate fixation surgery between February 2016 and March 2018. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: arthroscopically assisted CC fixation using multiple soft anchor knots group (AR, n= 12) and hook plate fixation group (HO, n= 10). We measured the CC distances (CCDs) and CCD ratio at 6 months, 1 year, and last follow-up postoperatively to compare the radiologic results between the groups. Clinical outcomes were assessed at 1 year postoperatively and at the last follow-up using the Visual Analog Scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) scores, and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Magnetic resonance imaging after hook plate removal was used to evaluate the healing ligaments and tendon-bone interface. The patients in the AR group had better ASES, SPADI, and Quick DASH scores than the patients in the HO group at 1 year postoperatively and at last follow-up. The CCD and CCD ratio were significantly better in the AR group than in the HO group at the last follow-up period (P= .007/0.029). Magnetic resonance imaging findings showed grade I in 60% of patients in the AR group and grade III in 60% of patients in the HO group. AC joint arthritic change was observed in 40% of the HO group. The CC fixation method using multiple soft anchor knots showed satisfactory results and had superior CC ligament healing ability and maintenance of CCD than hook fixation. Level III, retrospective therapeutic comparative investigation.

Treatment of acute high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations account for about 9% of shoulder injuries. Among them, acute high-grade injury following high-energy trauma accounts for a large proportion of patients requiring surgical treatment. However, there is no gold standard procedure for operative treatment of acute high-grade AC joint injury, and several different procedures have been used for this purpose in clinical practice. This review article summarizes the most recent and relevant surgical options for acute high-grade AC joint dislocation patients and the outcomes of each treatment type.

Weighted or internal rotation radiographs are not useful in the classification of acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

Weighted radiographs are performed to classify acromioclavicular joint dislocations; however, the evidence regarding their usefulness is conflicting. Laboratory studies suggest that internal rotation views can replace weighted radiographs, but this has not been clinically evaluated. To evaluate whether weighted or internal rotation radiographs uncovers more high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocations than non-weighted radiographs. A total of 162 patients with acromioclavicular joint dislocations were prospectively included. After applying exclusion criteria, 140 remained. Three panorama radiographs, including both coracoclavicular intervals, were completed of each participant: first, a weighted radiograph with 5-kg weights suspended from the wrists; second, a non-weighted radiograph; and third, an internal rotation radiograph. The coracoclavicular intervals were measured by two radiologists independently, and measurements were translated into Rockwood classifications. The classifications and measurements derived from the different radiographic views were compared. Weighted radiographs caused no significant changes in classification. For the internal rotation views, there was a significant change in classification for radiologist 2; however, the reason was that more injuries were downgraded compared to the non-weighted views. Relative to the non-weighted radiographs, the mean increase of the coracoclavicular interval on the injured side in the weighted view was 0.5 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.37-0.65) and in the internal rotation view 0.2 mm (95% CI 0.04-0.33). While these changes were statistically significant, they were small and not clinically important. This study does not support the use of weighted and internal rotation radiographs in the classification of acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

Early and delayed acromioclavicular joint reconstruction provide equivalent outcomes

Some comparative studies have reported improved outcomes for early compared with delayed reconstruction for high-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations. However, most are based on older techniques and did not specifically involve reconstruction of both the coracoclavicular (CC) and AC joint ligaments. The purpose of this study was to compare functional outcomes of early vs. delayed surgical intervention of AC joint dislocations managed with combined CC and AC ligament reconstruction. A retrospective comparative study was performed of 53 patients who underwent early (<2 weeks after injury) or delayed (≥2 weeks after injury) open stabilization for AC joint dislocation. All patients were managed with the same surgical technique of combined CC reconstruction and stabilization of the AC joint, except for the addition of a gracilis allograft for biologic CC reconstruction in delayed intervention. Outcome was determined at a minimum follow-up of 12 months, using the Acromioclavicular Joint Instability (ACJI) score, Taft score, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), visual analog scale (VAS)for pain, and overall satisfaction (0-10). Multivariable regression analyses were performed to test associations of ACJI and Taft scores with 5 independent variables (early vs. delayed surgery, age, sex, manual worker, and Rockwood type). The cohort comprised 47 men (89%) and 6 women (11%) aged 40.1 ± 11.2 years (range, 22-63 years). The early group (n = 31) underwent surgery 1.1 ± 0.5 weeks after injury, whereas the delayed group (n = 22) underwent surgery 84.3 ± 99.1 weeks after injury. There were no significant differences in ACJI scores (87 ± 14 vs. 89 ± 14, P = .267), Taft scores (10.1 ± 1.3 vs. 10.7 ± 1.3, P=.084), pain on VAS (0.3 ± 0.7 vs. 0.6 ± 1.1, P = .541), SSV (95 ± 7 vs. 93 ± 9, P = .427), or overall satisfaction (9.6 ± 0.9 vs. 9.4 ± 1.1, P = .491). Multivariable analyses revealed no associations between any of the independent variables and ACJI or Taft score. Early and delayed surgical interventions of high-grade AC joint dislocation provide equivalent clinical scores when combined CC and AC joint fixation is used for stabilization. Rapid surgical intervention for high-grade AC joint dislocation may not be necessary, as most patients can still benefit from surgery at a later stage.

Early clinical results of minimally invasive coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction can be maintained at a minimum of five years' follow-up.

There is a lack of long-term data for minimally invasive acromioclavicular (AC) joint repair. Furthermore, it is not clear if good early clinical results can be maintained over time. The purpose of this study was to report long-term results of minimally invasive AC joint reconstruction (MINAR) and compare it to corresponding short-term data. We assessed patients with a follow-up of at least five years after minimally invasive flip-button repair for high-grade AC joint dislocation. The clinical outcome was evaluated using the Constant score and a questionnaire. Ultrasound determined the coracoclavicular (CC) distance. Results of the current follow-up were compared to the short-term results of the same cohort. A total of 50 patients (three females, 47 males) were successfully followed up for a minimum of five years. The mean follow-up was 7.7 years (63 months to 132 months). The overall Constant score was 94.4 points (54 to 100) versus 97.7 points (83 to 100) for the contralateral side showing a significant difference for the operated shoulder (p = 0.013) The mean difference in the CC distance between the operated and the contralateral shoulder was 3.7 mm (0.2 to 7.8; p = 0.010). In total, 16% (n = 8) of patients showed recurrent instability. All these cases were performed within the first 16 months after introduction of this technique. A total of 84% (n = 42) of the patients were able to return to their previous occupations and sport activities. Comparison of short-term and long-term results revealed no significant difference for the Constant Score (p = 0.348) and the CC distance (p = 0.974). The clinical outcome of MINAR is good to excellent after long-term follow-up and no significant differences were found compared to short-term results. We therefore suggest this is a reliable technique for surgical treatment of high-grade AC joint dislocation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7):918-924.

Early Versus Delayed Surgical Treatment of High-grade Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations

Early Versus Delayed Surgical Treatment of High-grade Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations

Factors Predicting the Outcome After Arthroscopically Assisted Stabilization of Acute High-Grade Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations

Background: Factors influencing the outcome after arthroscopically assisted stabilization of acute high-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations remain poorly investigated. Purpose: To identify determinants of the radiological outcome and investigate associations between radiological and clinical outcome parameters. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The authors performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent arthroscopically assisted stabilization for acute high-grade AC joint dislocations. The following potential determinants of the radiological outcome were examined using univariable and multivariable regression analyses: timing of surgery, initial AC joint reduction, isolated coracoclavicular (CC) versus combined CC and AC stabilization, ossification of the CC ligaments, age, and overweight status. In addition, associations between radiological (ie, CC difference, dynamic posterior translation [DPT]) and clinical outcome parameters (Subjective Shoulder Value, Taft score [TS] subjective subcategory, and Acromioclavicular Joint Instability Score [ACJI] pain subitem) were evaluated using univariable analysis. Results: One hundred four patients with a mean (±SD) age of 38.1 ± 11.5 years were included in this study. The mean postoperative follow-up was 2.2 ± 0.9 years. Compared with patients with an overreduced AC joint after surgery, the CC difference was 4.3 mm (95% CI, 1.3-7.3; P = .006) higher in patients with incomplete reduction. Patients with anatomic reduction were 3.1 times (95% CI, 1.2-7.9; P = .017) more likely to develop DPT than those with an overreduced AC joint. An incompletely reduced AC joint was 5.3 times (95% CI, 2.1-13.4; P < .001) more likely to develop DPT versus an overreduced AC joint. Patients who underwent isolated CC stabilization were 4.8 times (95% CI, 1.1-21.0; P = .039) more likely to develop complete DPT than patients with additional AC stabilization. Significantly higher CC difference values were noted for patients who reported pain on the subjective TS (P = .025). Pain was encountered more commonly in patients with DPT (PTS = .049; PACJI = .038). Conclusion: Clinicians should consider overreduction of the AC joint because it may lead to favorable radiological results. Because of its association with superior radiographic outcomes, consideration should also be given to the use of additional AC cerclage.

Arthroscopic Coracoclavicular Fixation Technique Using Multiple All-Suture Anchors

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is a common injury, particularly among active young individuals. Numerous surgical procedures for treating acute, high-grade AC joint dislocation have been reported. However, no standard surgical procedure that restores the normal kinematics of the AC joint is available. Among the available coracoclavicular (CC) fixation techniques, cortical button fixation was recently introduced, and it has had successful outcomes. Moreover, it is advantageous because it can be used in arthroscopic procedures. However, because of the limited number of fixation tools, a fundamental problem in terms of horizontal instability and gradual subsidence of cortical buttons has been observed, eventually leading to a threat to vertical stability. Therefore, we developed a unique CC fixation technique with multiple small tunnels using all-suture anchors, which may overcome potential complications caused by cortical buttons that require bone tunnels with relatively large diameters. This arthroscopic CC fixation technique was designed to achieve the ideal horizontal and vertical stability that may restore native AC kinematics.