Our Technique for the Arthroscopic Mumford Procedure

A systematic review of the treatment of primary acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis

Background

This systematic review aims to comprehensively summarise and present the available evidence for the treatment of primary acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Five databases were searched for studies investigating the management of ACJ OA. Included were studies with participants with clinical/radiological signs of primary ACJ OA, an intervention and included a functional outcome measure.

Results

Forty-eight studies were included. Treatments consisted of physiotherapy (n = 1 study), medical only (n = 11) and operative management (n = 36). Operative studies included five comparative trials - physiotherapy versus surgery (n = 1) and open versus arthroscopic resection (n = 4). A total of 1902 shoulders were treated for ACJ OA, mean age (51 years), 58% male and mean follow-up (28.5 months). Treatment with injection showed a mean improvement of 50% in pain levels at follow-up (mean = 7.5 months). The commonest surgical procedure was arthroscopic excision of the distal clavicle and operative studies averaged 6 months of conservative management and a mean functional outcome of 87.8%.

Conclusion

Studies varied in indication, intervention and quality but it did not provide evidence that both non-operative and operative interventions are effective. There was no significant difference between open or arthroscopic distal clavicle excision (DCE). Participants having between 0.5 and 2 cm of clavicle excised had good outcomes and those requiring concomitant shoulder procedures had similarly good outcomes.

Patient outcomes following arthroscopic distal clavicle excision: a prospective case series

Background

Distal clavicle excision for acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) pathology is currently the mainstay of surgical management in patients with symptoms refractory to nonoperative treatment. There have been few high quality studies outlining the efficacy of arthroscopic excision of the distal clavicle as a single procedure in patients with isolated disease.

Aim

To characterize function and pain outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic distal clavicle excision by utilizing stringent inclusion criteria to isolate ACJ pathology.

Methods

Prospective data collection was undertaken with a minimum two year follow-up of 59 patients undergoing arthroscopic distal clavicle excision for ACJ osteoarthritis or distal clavicle osteolysis. Stringent eligibility criteria were applied to each patient. Data collection consisted of demographic data, clinical assessment of range of motion, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), utilizing the standardized Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and the Visual Analogue (VAS) score to characterize pain. Furthermore, time to return to work and sport and a subjective measure of how 'normal' the shoulder felt were assessed. Data was recorded preoperatively, and at six, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Statistical analysis was conducted utilizing institutional support.

Results

Statistically significant improvements in range of motion measurements (abduction, forward elevation and external rotation), and PROMs (SPADI and VAS scores) were reported. VAS scores reduced from an average of 8.20 preoperatively to 3.39 (P < .001), 2.13 (P < .001) and 1.36 (P < .001) at 6, 12, and 24 month follow-up, respectively. Similarly, SPADI scores reduced from an average of 62.65 preoperatively to 19.96 (P < .001), 12.6 (P < .001), and 6.13 (P < .001) at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. The majority of patients were able to return to sport and work, within an average time of 1.72 and 3.02 months.

Conclusion

In patients who presented with isolated ACJ pathology, arthroscopic distal clavicle excision, as a single procedure, results in statistically significant improvements in PROMs and functional outcomes.

Arthroscopic distal clavicle excision is associated with fewer postoperative complications than open

Background

The rate of complications of open compared to arthroscopic distal clavicle excision remain poorly studied. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to (1) Identify most recent national trends in the usage of open vs. arthroscopic approaches for distal clavicle excision (DCE) from 2007 to 2017; (2) to identify and compare the complication rates for both approaches, and to identify patient-specific risk factors for complications; (3) to identify and compare the revision rate for both approaches; and (4) to identify and compare the reimbursement of each approach.

Methods

The PearlDiver database was reviewed for patients undergoing DCE from 2007 to 2017. Patients were stratified into 2 cohorts: those undergoing arthroscopic DCE (n = 8933) and those undergoing open DCE (n = 2295). The rate of postoperative complications within 90 days was calculated and compared. The revision rate and reimbursement of the arthroscopic and open approach were compared. Statistical analysis included chi-square testing to compare the rates of postoperative complications and multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify risk factors for complications within 90 days. Results were considered significant at P < .05.

Results

The percentage of DCEs performed arthroscopically has significantly increased from 53.9% in 2007 to 69.8% in 2016, with a concomitant decrease in the use of open DCE from 46.1% in 2007 to 30.2% in 2016. The open approach was associated with significantly more postoperative complications, including a significantly greater incidence of surgical site infection (1.9% vs. 0.3%; P < .001), wound disruption (0.3% vs. 0.1%; P < .001), hematoma (0.9% vs. 0.2%; P = .001), and transfusion (0.6% vs. 0.1%; P < .001), than arthroscopic DCE. Several risk factors, including open approach, diabetes, heart disease, tobacco use, chronic kidney disease, and female gender, were identified as independent risk factors for complications after DCE. There was no significant difference in revision rate between open and arthroscopic approaches (P = .126). The reimbursement of open and arthroscopic DCE procedures were comparable, with median reimbursements of $5408 and $5,447, respectively (P = .853).

Conclusion

Both arthroscopic and open DCE techniques were found to have similar reimbursement amounts, with a low rate of complications, although the open technique had a higher rate of early complications such as surgical site infection. Over the study period, there was an increase in the utilization of arthroscopic DCE, while the incidence of the open technique remained constant.

Percutaneous distal clavicle excision for acromioclavicular joint arthritis: our experience and early results of a novel surgical technique

PURPOSE

Symptomatic acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) osteoarthritis causes pain and limitations in activities of daily living. Open and arthroscopic distal clavicle excision techniques have been described with good outcomes. However, both techniques have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. This study describes a novel technique of percutaneous distal clavicle excision for symptomatic ACJ osteoarthritis and our two-year results.

METHODS

Fifteen consecutive patients underwent percutaneous distal clavicle excision for ACJ arthritis. These patients had failed a trial of conservative treatment. The ACJ was confirmed as the pain generator with an intraarticular steroid/lignocaine injection, and shoulder MRI was used to exclude alternative pain generators in the shoulder. They had a minimum of two years of follow-up.

RESULTS

At a mean of 26.8 months postoperatively, the mean VAS pain score was 0, and the mean Constant score for the shoulder was 87.3 points (range 50-94), which corresponded to 1 good, 1 very good and 13 excellent results. The mean SF-36 score was 94.9 points (range 65-100). There were statistically significant improvements in the VAS scores, Constant shoulder scores and SF-36 scores at one year and two years of follow-up (p < 0.05). Three unique complications, namely subcutaneous emphysema, "missing" of the distal clavicle and thermal skin injury, were encountered. Our surgical technique has since been modified to circumvent these complications.

CONCLUSION

Our novel technique of percutaneous distal clavicle excision yields a 93.3% good-to-excellent results based on the Constant shoulder score and durable pain relief based on VAS at two years.

Trends in the Surgical Management of Acromioclavicular Joint Arthritis Among Board-Eligible US Orthopaedic Surgeons

PURPOSE

(1) Define the epidemiologic trend of distal clavicle excision (DCE) for acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis among board-eligible orthopaedic surgeons in the United States, (2) describe the rates and types of reported complications of open and arthroscopic DCE, and (3) evaluate the effect of fellowship training on preferred technique and reported complication rates.

METHODS

The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) database was used to identify DCE cases submitted by ABOS Part II Board Certification examination candidates. Inclusion criteria were predetermined using a combination of ICD-9 and CPT codes. Cases were dichotomized into 2 groups: open or arthroscopic DCE. The 2 groups were then analyzed to determine trends in annual incidence, complication rates, and surgeon fellowship training.

RESULTS

From April 2004 to September 2013, there were 3,229 open and 12,782 arthroscopic DCE procedures performed and submitted by ABOS Part II Board Eligible candidates. Overall, the annual incidence of open DCE decreased (78-37 cases per 10,000 submitted cases, P = .023). Although the annual number of arthroscopic DCE remained steady (1160-1125, P = .622), the percentage of DCE cases performed arthroscopically increased (65%-79%, P = .033). Surgeons without fellowship training were most likely to perform a DCE via an open approach (31%) whereas surgeons with sports medicine training were more likely to perform DCE arthroscopically compared with other fellowship groups (88%, P < .001). Open DCE was associated with a higher surgical complication rate overall when compared with arthroscopic DCE (9.4% vs 7.6%, respectively; P < .001). When compared with other fellowship-trained surgeons, sports medicine surgeons maintained a lower reported surgical complication rate whether performing open or arthroscopic DCE (5.5%, P = .027).

CONCLUSIONS

In recent years, open management of AC joint arthritis has declined among newly trained, board-eligible orthopaedic surgeons, possibly because of an increased complication rate associated with open treatment. Fellowship training was significantly associated with the type of treatment (open vs arthroscopic) rendered and complication rates.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.

Managing acromio-clavicular joint pain: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Shoulder pain secondary to acromioclavicular joint pain is a common presentation in primary and secondary care but is often poorly managed as a result of uncertainty about optimal treatment strategies. Osteoarthritis is the commonest cause. Although acromioclavicular pain can be treated non-operatively and operatively, there appears to be no consensus on the best practice pathway of care for these patients, with variations in treatment being common place. The present study comprises a scoping review of the current published evidence for the management of isolated acromioclavicular pain (excluding acromioclavicular joint dislocation).

METHODS

A comprehensive search strategy was utilized in multiple medical databases to identify level 1 and 2 randomised controlled trials, nonrandomised controlled trials and systematic reviews for appraisal.

RESULTS

Four systematic reviews and two randomised controlled trials were identified. No direct studies have compared the benefits or risks of conservative versus surgical management in a controlled environment.

CONCLUSIONS

High-level studies on treatment modalities for acromioclavicular joint pain are limited. As such, there remains little evidence to support one intervention or treatment over another, making it difficult to develop any evidenced-based patient pathways of care for this condition.Level of evidence: 2A.

Diagnosis and Management of Distal Clavicle Osteolysis

Distal clavicle osteolysis is an uncommon condition that most commonly affects weight lifters and other athletes who perform repetitive overhead activity. Although this condition most commonly presents in young active men, it is becoming increasing more common in women with the rise in popularity of body building and extreme athletics. Distal clavicle osteolysis can be debilitating, especially in those with rigorous training regimens, preventing exercise because of pain with activities such as bench presses and chest flies. Aside from a careful history and physical examination, radiographic evaluation is essential in distinguishing isolated distal clavicle osteolysis from acromioclavicular joint pathology, despite a potentially similar presentation of the 2 conditions. Nonoperative therapy that includes activity modification, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and cortisone injections is the first-line management for this condition. Patients whose conditions are refractory to nonoperative modalities may benefit from distal clavicle resection via either open or arthroscopic techniques. Arthroscopic techniques typically are favored because of improved cosmesis and the added benefit of the ability to assess the glenohumeral joint during surgery to rule out concomitant pathology. There are varying operative techniques even within arthroscopic management, with pros and cons of a direct and an indirect surgical approach. Patients often do well after such procedures and are able to return to their preinjury level of participation in a relatively short period. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(2):119-124.].

Arthroscopic Distal Clavical Resection Using "Vis-à-Vis" Portal

Arthroscopic distal clavicle resection has become an increasingly popular procedure in orthopaedics, and various techniques have been published. Many of the arthroscopic distal clavicle resection techniques that have been reported require visualization from the lateral portal with an anterior working portal to perform the resection. While these techniques have reported high success rates, there is often difficulty in viewing the entire acromioclavicular joint from the 2 standard arthroscopic portals (lateral and anterior). This is due to the medial edge of the acromion blocking the ability to visualize the most superior and posterior portions of the distal clavicle. We propose a technique for arthroscopic distal clavicle resection using an accessory anterior portal.

Arthroscopic resection of the distal clavicle in osteoarthritis of the acromioclavicular joint

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) lesions are a common cause of shoulder complaints that can be treated successfully with both conservative and surgical methods. There are several operative techniques, including both open and arthroscopic surgery, for excising the distal end of the clavicle. Here, we present a new modified arthroscopic technique for painful osteoarthritis of the ACJ and evaluate its clinical outcomes. Our hypothesis was that 4- to 7-mm resection of the distal clavicle in an en bloc fashion would have several advantages, including no bony remnants, maintenance of stability of the ACJ, and reduced prevalence of heterotopic ossification, in addition to elimination of the pathologic portion of the distal clavicle.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

20 shoulders of 20 consecutive patients with painful and isolated osteoarthritis of the ACJ who were treated by arthroscopic en bloc resection of the distal clavicle were included in the study. There were 10 males and 10 females with an average age of 56 years (range 42-70 years). The mean duration of followup was 6 years and 2 months (range 4-8 years 10 months). The results were evaluated using the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder rating score.

RESULTS

The overall UCLA score was 13.7 preoperatively, which improved to 33.4 postoperatively. All subscores were improved significantly (P < 0.001). There were no specific complications at the latest followup.

CONCLUSION

It is critical in this procedure to resect the distal clavicle evenly from superior to inferior in an en bloc fashion without any small bony remnants and to preserve the capsule and acromioclavicular ligament superoposteriorly. This arthroscopic procedure is a reliable and reproducible technique for painful osteoarthritis of the ACJ lesions in active patients engaged in overhead throwing sports and heavy labor.

[Arthroscopic resection of the acromioclavicular joint]

OBJECTIVE

Arthroscopic resection of the painful and degenerative altered acromioclavicular (AC) joint without destabilization of the joint and therefore pain relief and improvement in function.

INDICATIONS

Conservative failed therapy of painful AC joint osteoarthritis. Impingement caused by caudal AC joint osteophytes. Lateral clavicular osteolysis.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

General contraindications (infection, local tumor, coagulation disorders), higher grade instability of the AC joint (resection only together with stabilization).

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Diagnostic glenohumeral arthroscopy. Treatment of accompanying lesions (subacromial impingement, rotator cuff, long head of biceps). Subacromial arthroscopy with bursectomy (partial) and visualization of the AC joint. Resection of caudal osteophytes. Localization of the anterior portal using a spinal needle in the outside-in technique. Resection of 2-3 mm of the acromial side and the 3-4 mm of the clavicular side with shaver/acromionizer.

RESULTS

An isolated open AC joint resection was performed in 9 studies and an arthroscopic resection in 6 studies. Good and very good results were obtained in 79% (range 54-100%) in open resection and 91% (range 85-100%) in arthroscopic resections. Patients were able to return to activities of daily life more quickly after arthroscopic resections than after open surgery.

How long should arthroscopic clavicular resection be in acromioclavicular arthropathy? A radiological-clinical study (with computed tomography) of 18 cases at a mean 4 years' follow-up

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic clavicular resection is a common procedure, but few studies have analyzed predictive factors for outcome.

HYPOTHESES

1) Computed tomography (CT) of clavicular resection is reproductible; 2) Functional outcome correlates with resection length; 3) Other factors also influence outcome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients operated on between 2005 and 2010 were called back to establish functional scores (Constant, Simple Shoulder Test [SST], satisfaction) and undergo low-dose bilateral comparative computed tomography (CT) centered on the acromioclavicular joints. The assessment criteria were resection edge parallelism and resection length, measured using OsiriX software. Radiological and clinical data were correlated.

RESULTS

18 out of 21 patients (85%: 3 female, 15 male) were assessed. Mean age at surgery was 49 years (range, 40-62 yrs); mean follow-up was 4.2 years (1.6-7.2 yrs). Mean Constant score rose from 57.7 (25-85) to 70.2 (30-96); mean postoperative SST was 9.3 (3-12). 11 patients had very good and 4 poor results. CT resection length was reproducible, with intraclass, intra- and interobserver correlation coefficients >95%. There was no significant correlation between articular resection length on CT and functional scores (P=0.2). Functional scores were negatively influenced by an occupational pathologic context (P<0.01) and by associated tendinopathy.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Low-dose CT enabled reproducible analysis of clavicular resection. The hypothesized correlation between resection length and functional result was not confirmed. Work accidents and occupational disease emerged as risk factors.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Single-center retrospective analytic cohort study. Level 4, guideline grade C.

The evaluation and management of failed distal clavicle excision

Excision of the distal clavicle (DCE) is a commonly carried out surgical procedure used in the management of acromioclavicular joint pathology. Although successful outcomes after both open and arthroscopic distal clavicle excision occur in a high percentage of patients, treatment failures have been reported, creating a difficult clinical scenario for the treating orthopedic surgeon. The most common mode of failure after DCE is persistent pain and potential etiologies include under-resection, over-resection leading to joint instability, postoperative stiffness, heterotopic ossification, untreated concomitant shoulder pathology, and postoperative infection. Less common causes of failure include distal clavicle fracture, reossification or fusion across the acromioclavicular joint, suprascapular neuropathy, and psychiatric illness. Persistent symptoms and disability after distal clavicle excision require a careful assessment of these potential causes of treatment failure and the formulation of a treatment plan, which may include conservative care, revision surgery, or coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction. Although careful patient selection, preoperative planning, proper surgical technique, and appropriate rehabilitation during the index procedure can minimize the likelihood of poor outcome, this paper reviews the work-up and management of cases of failed distal clavicle excision.

Open versus arthroscopic distal clavicle resection

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review was to critically evaluate the available literature in an attempt to compare the outcome of open versus arthroscopic distal clavicle resection in the treatment of acromioclavicular joint pathology.

METHODS

From January 1966 to December 2008, Medline was searched for the following key words: "acromioclavicular joint arthritis," "acromioclavicular osteolysis," "distal clavicle excision," "acromioclavicular joint excision," "Mumford," and "clavicle." Inclusion criteria included studies that compared the outcome of open versus arthroscopic distal clavicle resection. Studies that could not be translated into the English language or were not published in a peer-reviewed journal were excluded. Data were abstracted from the studies, including patient demographics, surgical procedure, rehabilitation, strength, range of motion, and clinical scoring system.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, including 2 Level II studies, 1 Level III and 14 Level IV studies. Arthroscopic distal clavicle excision results in more "good" or "excellent" outcomes compared with the open procedure. Both arthroscopic techniques result in success rates in excess of 90%, with the direct procedure permitting a quicker return to athletic activities. Performing distal clavicle excision in conjunction with either subacromial decompression or rotator cuff repair also has a high degree of success. A trend toward more "poor" results is seen when distal clavicle excision is performed in patients with post-traumatic acromioclavicular instability or in Workers' Compensation patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis suggests that among patients undergoing distal clavicle excision for acromioclavicular joint pathology, those having an arthroscopic procedure, specifically through the direct approach, can expect a faster return to activities while obtaining similar long-term outcomes compared with the open procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review.

Complications after open distal clavicle excision

Isolated distal clavicle excision performed as an open procedure has been considered safe and, in the literature, has been considered the standard for comparison with arthroscopic distal clavicle excisions. However, we noticed isolated open distal clavicle excision was associated with a number of complications. We therefore raised two questions about the complication rate in a cohort of our patients who had undergone this procedure: (1) What was the complication rate and how did it compare to that in the existing literature on this subject? and (2) Were the complications in our cohort similar to those previously reported? We studied 42 patients who underwent an isolated distal clavicle excision between 1992 and 2003. There were 27 complications (64%), which was substantially higher than rates previously reported. Complications in our cohort not previously reported included continued acromioclavicular joint tenderness and scar hypertrophy. Our study suggests complications after open distal clavicle excisions may be more frequent than and may differ from previously reported rates and types.

Surgical treatment of symptomatic acromioclavicular joint problems: a systematic review

Excision of the distal clavicle has become the mainstay of surgical treatment for acromioclavicular joint arthritis and osteolysis refractory to nonoperative management. Surgical options for symptomatic acromioclavicular joint abnormalities refractory to nonoperative treatment are the classic open distal clavicle excision, direct (superior) arthroscopic excision, and indirect (bursal) arthroscopic distal clavicle excision. We asked whether any of these three procedures provided a better result. We systematically reviewed the medical literature (Medline, EMBASE), assigned a level of evidence for available studies, and critically identified the flaws and biases in the studies to provide comparisons between the published reports. We limited the literature review to clinical reports in the English language published in peer-reviewed journals. The literature supports surgical excision, but the reports are all Level III or IV evidence consisting largely of retrospective case series. Arthroscopic distal clavicle resection has provided more "good or excellent" results than has the open procedure, but is comprised of low-level evidence. Distal clavicle resection has provided satisfactory results when combined with other procedures. Simple distal clavicle resection may have worse outcomes when performed after preceding trauma. The published reports of the removal of medial acromial and inferior distal clavicle osteophytes when performing subacromial decompression are conflicting and may increase post-operative acromioclavicular symptoms.

Arthroscopic distal clavicle resection: a comparison of bursal and direct approaches

PURPOSE

To test the hypothesis that the direct (superior) approach to arthroscopic distal clavicle resection is as safe and effective as the bursal (subacromial) approach.

METHODS

All patients who had an arthroscopic distal clavicle resection in our institution between 1994 and 2002 were reviewed. Patients with a history of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) instability, previous shoulder surgery, glenohumeral pathology, full-thickness rotator cuff tear, or other significant orthopaedic comorbidity were excluded. Outcome data were collected including the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score as well as subjective ratings of pain and instability.

RESULTS

Follow-up was completed on 66 shoulders of 60 patients. Twenty-four shoulders had a bursal approach (group I) and 42 had a direct approach (group II). There were 45 men and 15 women with an average age of 46 years (range, 21 to 78 years). Follow-up averaged 6.0 years (range, 2 to 11.5 years). The average ASES score was 90 (range, 53-100) in group I and 94 (range, 55-100) in group II. Four patients (10%) in group II required reoperation: 2 patients required ACJ stabilization at 6 and 9 months postoperatively because of anteroposterior instability, and 2 patients required resection again at 5 years because of recurrent symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the direct and bursal approaches lead to satisfactory outcomes in the majority of patients with ACJ arthrosis. However, the direct approach to the ACJ may damage the superior capsular ligaments, potentially leading to distal clavicle instability. Care should be taken when performing the direct ACJ resection to avoid disrupting the capsular restraints.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV therapeutic case series.

An improved technique for arthroscopic resection of the acromioclavicular joint

Resection is the accepted treatment for arthritis of the acromioclavicular joint. It may be performed either open or arthroscopically. During arthroscopic resection, visualizing the superior aspect of the joint and determining the limit of resection can be difficult. We describe a new technique to improve visualization during the procedure.

Ligamentous anatomy of the distal clavicle

We describe the insertional variations of supporting ligaments of the acromioclavicular joint, especially with respect to gender. We analyzed 41 cadaveric clavicles (22 female and 19 male) with attached ligaments. The distance between the insertion of the trapezoid ligament and the distal end of the clavicle was not significantly different between sexes, although that of the conoid ligament and the mean anteroposterior width of the distal clavicle was significantly greater in men. Although there are significant sex-related differences in the insertional distances of the CC ligaments, resection of less than 11.0 mm should not violate the trapezoid ligament and less than 24.0 mm should not violate the conoid ligament in either sex in 98% of the general population. Resection of more than 7.6 mm of the distal clavicle in men and 5.2 mm in women, performed by an arthroscopic approach, may violate the superior acromioclavicular ligament.

The role of the acromioclavicular joint in impingement syndrome

Although AC pathology usually represents a late manifestation of outlet impingement, it typically presents as a cause of pain that is resistant to nonoperative and operative measures designed to treat purely anterior acromial pathology. The bursitis that occurs with AC joint impingement may be indistinguishable from anterior acromial impingement on clinical presentation; however, physical examination, diagnostic injection, and radiographic evaluation are generally sufficient to establish the diagnosis of AC joint impingement. Nonoperative measures are indicated for the treatment of acute bursitis, although operative intervention may be necessary in cases of large, distally projecting osteophytes in the presence of AC joint degeneration. Acromioclavicular pathology, when present, should be addressed at the time of subacromial decompression, and may involve distal clavicular resection, beveling of the AC joint, or excision of marginal osteophytes. The results of surgery to address the AC contribution to impingement are generally favorable; future investigation may further clarify the role of coplaning and its potential contribution to continued postoperative AC pain and symptomatic instability.

Arthroscopic resection of the distal aspect of the clavicle with concomitant subacromial decompression

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic subacromial decompression and arthroscopic resection of the acromioclavicular joint as separate procedures have been well documented. However, there is little information on the success rate of resection with concomitant decompression. In this study, we retrospectively evaluated the results of a consecutive group of patients who underwent arthroscopic resection of the acromioclavicular joint with concomitant subacromial decompression.

METHODS

We evaluated the surgical results in thirty-one consecutive patients (thirty-two shoulders) with acromioclavicular pathology with concomitant subacromial impingement. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was thirty-six years (range, eighteen to sixty-seven years). Twenty-five patients, including four professional athletes, were actively involved in sports activities. The mean duration of follow-up was four years and ten months (range, three to eight years). The follow-up examination included clinical evaluation, chart review, radiographic analysis, and isokinetic testing of both upper extremities.

RESULTS

Of the twenty-five patients who participated in sports, twenty-two (including the four professional athletes) returned to their previous level of sports activity. Twenty-six patients had no pain, three reported mild pain on strenuous repetitive overhead activity, two (both weight-lifters) had occasional pain in the acromioclavicular joint and the lateral aspect of the shoulder with bench-pressing, and two (both baseball players) had mild pain in the posterior aspect of the shoulder with throwing. All of the patients were satisfied with the results. In the absence of a complete rotator cuff tear, isokinetic strength-testing of both upper extremities failed to demonstrate any weakness of the involved shoulder. The mean functional score for individual activities was 2.7 points (range, 2.1 to 3.0 points) preoperatively and 3.9 points (range, 3.6 to 4.0 points) postoperatively (p = 0.0001). No patient had superior migration of the clavicle. The amount of distal clavicular resection averaged 9 mm (range, 7 to 15 mm). One patient had heterotopic ossification at the resection site, with mild pain on direct palpation of the acromioclavicular joint and on strenuous overhead activity. Five patients had calcification at the anterior deltoid insertion into the acromion that was asymptomatic, with no impingement on overhead activity and no pain on direct palpation.

CONCLUSIONS

We found excellent results with arthroscopic resection of the acromioclavicular joint and concomitant subacromial decompression. When this procedure is performed on properly selected patients, the results are similar to those of an open approach.

Osteolysis of the distal clavicle: long-term results of arthroscopic resection

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of arthroscopic distal clavicle resection by the direct superior approach for treatment of isolated osteolysis of the distal clavicle.

TYPE OF STUDY

Case series.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-one shoulders in 37 patients underwent arthroscopic resection of the distal clavicle. Thirty-three patients were male and 4 female, with an average age of 39 years. All patients complained of pain localized to the acromioclavicular joint region. Symptoms began after a traumatic event in 18 shoulders and were associated with repetitive stressful activity in 23 shoulders.

RESULTS

At an average follow-up of 6.2 years, 22 shoulders had excellent results, 16 had good results, and 3 were failures. All 3 failures occurred in patients with a traumatic etiology.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic resection for osteolysis of the distal clavicle has results comparable to open excision with low morbidity. Patients with a traumatic etiology had slightly worse results compared with patients with a microtraumatic etiology.

Injuries to the shoulder in the throwing athlete. Part two: evaluation/treatment

In part one of this three-part series (March/April 2000), I concentrated on summarizing the biomechanics of the normal throwing shoulder and the pathophysiology of injury. A classification of injury was presented that was based on the principles contained in that article. Part two of this series will focus on the evaluation and treatment of injuries, expanded from an understanding of the principles learned in part one. The ability to perform a skillful examination, and thus develop an accurate diagnosis, is the foundation for treatment. Fortunately, many difficulties encountered in a thrower's shoulder can be treated with a nonoperative approach. However, in instances where conservative measures fail, an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of injury and the development of improved surgical techniques are leading to more accurate diagnoses and more successful rates of return of the athlete to a premorbid level of activity.

Painful conditions of the acromioclavicular joint

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint may be affected by a number of pathologic processes, most commonly osteoarthritis, posttraumatic arthritis, and distal clavicle osteolysis. The correct diagnosis of a problem can usually be deduced from a thorough history, physical examination, and radiologic evaluation. Asymptomatic AC joint degeneration is frequent and does not always correlate with the presence of symptoms. Selective lidocaine injection enhances diagnostic accuracy and may correlate with surgical outcome. Nonoperative treatment is helpful for most patients, although those with osteolysis may have to modify their activities. In appropriately selected patients, open or arthroscopic distal clavicle resection is necessary to relieve symptoms. Recent biomechanical and clinical data emphasize the importance of capsular preservation and minimization of bone resection; however, the optimal amount of distal clavicle resection remains elusive. Patients with AC joint instability have poor results after distal clavicle resection.

Acromioclavicular joint disorders

The acromioclavicular joint is commonly involved in athletic injuries. Most commonly, a sprain to the joint occurs with variability in the amount of ligamentous damage and displacement that occurs. In all but the most severe dislocations, treatment consists of initial sling immobilization and early functional rehabilitation. The outcome is usually excellent with full return of function following these injuries. The rarer types (IV, V, and VI) require operative reduction and fixation. Distal clavicle fractures are related injuries, which many times disrupt the stabilizing ligaments of the acromioclavicular joint. Many can be treated nonoperatively, but there are several subtypes that should be considered for early fixation to reduce complications of pain and shoulder dysfunction. An atraumatic, overuse condition, which is becoming more prevalent and seems related to weight training, is osteolysis of the distal clavicle. There is insidious onset of shoulder pain with symptoms and signs consistent with acromioclavicular pathology. Activity modification is the best method of controlling symptoms. Failure of the conservative approach necessitates operative excision of the distal clavicle.

The arthroscopic Mumford procedure: an analysis of results

A total of 50 arthroscopic distal clavicle resections were performed for acromioclavicular joint pathology at our institution between 1990 and 1993. Follow-up on 50 shoulders (100%) was obtained at an average postoperative time of 2 years. Data were collected via physical examination, radiograph review, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score, and questionnaire. Average patient age was 42 years. Preoperatively all patients showed acromioclavicular joint tenderness, whereas 80% had a positive adduction test. The diagnosis of acromioclavicular degeneration was made by a combination of physical examination and radiographs (100%), acromioclavicular joint injection (4%), bone scan (44%), and magnetic resonance imaging (30%). Intraoperatively, a Claviculizer (Smith-Nephew Dyonics, Andover, MA) burr was used through standard portals in a subacromial approach to the acromioclavicular joint. There were no intraoperative complications. Forty-one patients (82%) had their general anesthetic augmented with an intrascalene block, and all procedures were done on an outpatient basis. The average distal clavicle resection was 14.8 mm. Calcifications within the resected clavicle zone were noted in the shoulders of four of the patients (16%) who returned for radiographic follow-up. The UCLA shoulder score ranked 47 shoulders (94%) good to excellent and 3 fair (6%). Subjective patient satisfaction recorded 47 (94%) good to excellent results, with an average pain relief grade of 87%. Forty-five patients (98%) would recommend the procedure. The arthroscopic Mumford procedure effectively treats acromioclavicular joint pathology. The amount of bone removed can be precisely determined with the Claviculizer burr and reliably reproduced. The procedure has low associated morbidity and high patient satisfaction regarding functional outcome.

Arthroscopic resection of the distal clavicle with a superior approach

Forty-one patients (41 shoulders) with acromioclavicular joint disease refractory to conservative treatment underwent arthroscopic distal clavicle resection. Thirty-one men and 10 women with an average age of 32 years were studied. The dominant extremity was involved in 68% of the patients. At an average follow-up period of 31 months (range 24 to 49 months), 18 excellent, 16 good, and seven poor results were found. Twenty-seven (93%) of 29 shoulders with acromioclavicular arthritis or osteolysis of the distal clavicle went on to have satisfactory results compared with only seven (58%) of 12 shoulders with previous grade II acromioclavicular separations or acromioclavicular hypermobility. Total amount of bone removal did not correlate with success, if the resection was even. Five reoperations were done; one uneven resection was revised with arthroscopy, and four shoulders underwent acromioclavicular stabilization procedures. The high failure rate in patients with even subtle acromioclavicular instability (42%) suggests that in these cases formal stabilization with ligament reconstruction should be considered in addition to resection of the distal clavicle.

Failure of arthroscopic decompression by subacromial heterotopic ossification causing recurrent impingement

Heterotopic ossification is a well-recognized complication of musculoskeletal trauma and elective orthopaedic surgery. A series of 10 cases of arthroscopic subacromial decompressions developed postoperative heterotopic bone. In eight, the ectopic bone caused recurrent shoulder impingement. These are the first reported cases in which heterotopic ossification compromised the results of an arthroscopic procedure. It is recommended that the patient at risk (e.g., with active spondolytic arthropathy or a profile of hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy--obesity, diabetes with a history of chronic pulmonary disease) be considered for heterotopic ossification prophylaxis.