Acromioclavicular third degree dislocation: surgical treatment in acute cases

Type III acromioclavicular dislocation: Mid term results after operative and non-operative treatment

INTRODUCTION

Controversy exists in the literature about the best treatment for type III acromioclavicular dislocations. The aim of this study is to compare functional results between surgical and conservative treatment in type III acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We retrospectively evaluated the records of 30 patients from our area with acute type III acromioclavicular dislocations that were treated from January 1st, 2016 to December 31st, 2020. Fifteen patients were treated surgically and 15 conservatively. Follow up mean time was 37.93 months in operative group and 35.73 months in non-operative group. Results obtained on the Constant score was the main variable analysed and results obtained on the Oxford score and the Visual Analogue Scale for pain were the secondary variables. Epidemiological variables were analysed, as well as range of mobility in injured shoulder and subjective and radiological variables (distance between the superior border of the acromion and the superior border of the clavicle's distal end and presence of osteoarthritis in the acromioclavicular joint).

RESULTS

Functional evaluation scores did not show differences between the two groups (Constant: operative 82/non-operative 86.38, p 0.412; Oxford: operative 42/non-operative 44.80, p 0.126) nor did Visual Analogue Scale (operative 1/non-operative 0.20, p 0.345). Subjective evaluation of the injured shoulder was excellent or good in 80% of the patients in both groups. Measurement of the distance between the superior border of the acromion and the superior border of the clavicle's distal end were significantly higher in non-operative group (operative 8.95/non-operative 14.21, p 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Although radiographic results were better in the surgical treatment group, functional evaluation scores did not show significant differences between the two groups. These results do not support the routine use of surgical treatment for grade III acromioclavicular dislocations.

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

PURPOSE

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations are common injuries, but the indication for and timing of surgery is debated. The objective of the study was to evaluate the results after acute AC joint dislocations Rockwood type III and V treated nonsurgically with the option of delayed surgical intervention.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study with clinical, radiological and patient-reported outcome assessment at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after acute AC joint dislocation. Patients aged 18-60 with acute AC joint dislocation and a baseline panorama (Zanca) radiograph with an increase in the coracoclavicular distance of >25% compared to the uninjured side were eligible for inclusion. All patients were treated nonsurgically with 3 months of home-based training and with the option of delayed surgical intervention. The primary outcome was the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI). Secondary outcomes were surgery yes/no and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI).

RESULTS

Ninety-five patients were included. Fifty-seven patients were Rockwood type III and 38 patients were type V. There were no statistically significant differences in WOSI and SPADI between patients with type III and V injuries at any time point. Nine patients (9.5%) were referred for surgery; seven type III and two type V (ns).

CONCLUSION

Ninety-one percent of patients with acute AC joint dislocation Rockwood type III and V recovered without surgery and there were no differences in outcome scores between type III and V at any time point.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

The ISAKOS subclassification of Rockwood type III AC joint dislocations in a stable type A and an unstable type B is not clinically relevant

PURPOSE

The treatment of Rockwood type III AC joint dislocations has been debated for decades. In 2014, the International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine (ISAKOS) Upper Extremity Committee suggested a subclassification of the injury into type A, considered stable and best treated nonsurgically, and type B, considered unstable and best treated surgically. Type B is defined by the presence of scapular dyskinesis and overriding of the clavicle to the acromion on a modified lateral radiograph. The objective of the study was to investigate if this subclassification is clinically relevant.

METHODS

This was a prospective cohort study. Inclusion criteria were patients aged 18-60 years with acute AC joint dislocation and a baseline Zanca radiograph with an increase in the CC distance of >25% compared to the uninjured side. All patients were treated nonsurgically with 3 months of home-based training and with the option of delayed surgical intervention. Patients were assessed at baseline and at follow-ups 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after the injury. At the 6-week follow-up, patients were graded as stable and unstable according to the ISAKOS criteria. Outcomes were the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) and referral for surgery.

RESULTS

At 6 weeks of follow-up, 20 patients were classified as stable type A and 69 were classified as unstable type B. The ISAKOS subclassification was not clinically relevant, but patients graded as stable had statistically significantly better WOSI scores at 6 months compared to the unstable group (p = 0.03) but not at 3 months or 1 year. Nine patients (9.5%), all from the unstable group, were referred for surgery. No patients from the stable group underwent surgery (n.s).

CONCLUSION

The ISAKOS subclassification of Rockwood type III in a stable type A and an unstable type B is not clinically applicable.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

[Translated article] Type III acromioclavicular dislocation: Mid term results after operative and non-operative treatment

INTRODUCTION

Controversy exists in the literature about the best treatment for type III acromioclavicular dislocations. The aim of this study is to compare functional results between surgical and conservative treatment in type III acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We retrospectively evaluated the records of 30 patients from our area with acute type III acromioclavicular dislocations that were treated from January 1st, 2016 to December 31st, 2020. Fifteen patients were treated surgically and 15 conservatively. Follow-up mean time was 37.93 months in operative group and 35.73 months in non-operative group. Results obtained on the Constant score was the main variable analysed and results obtained on the Oxford score and the Visual Analogue Scale for pain were the secondary variables. Epidemiological variables were analysed, as well as range of mobility in injured shoulder and subjective and radiological variables (distance between the superior border of the acromion and the superior border of the clavicle's distal end and presence of osteoarthritis in the acromioclavicular joint).

RESULTS

Functional evaluation scores did not show differences between the two groups (Constant: operative 82/non-operative 86.38, p 0.412; Oxford: operative 42/non-operative 44.80, p 0.126) nor did Visual Analogue Scale (operative 1/non-operative 0.20, p 0.345). Subjective evaluation of the injured shoulder was excellent or good in 80% of the patients in both groups. Measurement of the distance between the superior border of the acromion and the superior border of the clavicle's distal end were significantly higher in non-operative group (operative 8.95/non-operative 14.21, p 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Although radiographic results were better in the surgical treatment group, functional evaluation scores did not show significant differences between the two groups. These results do not support the routine use of surgical treatment for grade III acromioclavicular dislocations.

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

Introduction

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.

Methods

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.

Results

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.

Discussion/Conclusion

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.

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

INTRODUCTION

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.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

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.

RESULTS

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 = 3.6 mm), whereas no significant difference was found in the MO group (Δ = 0.8 mm). 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: 24.8 mm, MO: 19.3 mm, combined: ASK: 29.1 mm, MO: 20.9 mm). 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).

CONCLUSIONS

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.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 1

[Injuries of the shoulder in winter sports]

Skiing as a sport has come a long way from the first competitive event in Norway in 1767 to about 200 million skiers today worldwide. With Germany alone recording around 8000 injuries annually, there is an increased need for awareness for winter-sport-related injuries and their management. According to the latest report by "Auswertungsstelle für Skiunfälle" (ASU, evaluation center for ski accidents), shoulder injuries alone account for more than 20% of injuries to all body regions (men 26.1% and women 13%). The most common injuries affecting the shoulder girdle are rotator cuff strains, glenohumeral dislocations, acromioclavicular dislocations and clavicle fractures. These injuries are primarily the result of four mechanisms: direct impact, axial load on an extended arm, resisted forced abduction of the arm, and external rotation forces resulting from a firmly planted ski pole in the grasp of a skier during a fall. In this article, we describe the three most common shoulder girdle injuries in winter sports along with their management and answer the most important questions for the athlete.

Acute Rockwood type III ACJ dislocation: Conservative vs surgical approach. A systematic review and meta-analysis of current concepts in literature

BACKGROUND

The most appropriate approach, surgical or conservative, for acute Rockwood type III acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation is still under debate. In literature, similar results have been reported with both treatments. This review aims to analyze the operative and conservative outcomes of acute Rockwood type III ACJ dislocation to guide orthopedics in daily practice.

MATERIAL/METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed according to PRISMA guidelines. A PICOS template was developed. Four databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Embase, and Medline) were searched, and eligible articles were evaluated according to the Levels of Evidence. The methodological quality of the articles was assessed through the ROBINS-I and the RoB-2. This review was registered in PROSPERO.

RESULTS

Five studies were included, with 73 and 110 patients treated with conservative and surgical approaches, respectively. Three outcomes, Constant Score (CS), coracoclavicular distance (CCD), and acromioclavicular distance (ACD) were analyzed. Only the acromioclavicular distance was statistically significant in the surgical group over the conservative one (p < 0.05); instead, the other two outcomes demonstrated no statistical difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated statistically significant superiority of the mean ACD score in the radiological follow-up of the surgical group compared to the conservative one. A tendency for better radiological and clinical results, mean CCD and CS scores, respectively, although non statically significant, was reported in the surgical group. High-quality randomized controlled clinical trials should help determine the most appropriate treatment for acute Rockwood type III ACJ dislocations.

Acromioclavicular joint injuries revisited: Pathoanatomy, pathomechanics, and clinical presentation

Multiple papers have described aspects of treatment of acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries. Most have emphasized aspects of surgical treatment, and some papers have addressed non-operative treatment. Few papers have highlighted the specific pathoanatomy of an AC joint injury or have described methods of evaluating the 3-dimensional pathomechanics resulting from the pathoanatomical injury. This paper is based on 3 observations: (1) AC joint injuries exist and present on a spectrum of pathoanatomy; (2) The effect of the pathoanatomy on normal AC joint mechanics to produce pathomechanics is dependent on the extent of the pathoanatomy; and (3) Treatment protocols should be developed to address the specific pathoanatomy to optimize the mechanics. A comprehensive clinical approach emphasizing the evaluation of the extent of the anatomic injury and understanding its mechanical consequences regarding shoulder and arm function is a key in the development of guidelines for developing operative or non-operative treatment protocols and for establishing outcomes of the treatment protocols.

Surgical Management of Acute Rockwood Grade III Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations: A Systematic Review

Injuries of the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) occur frequently in young and active people. The best management of acute grade III injuries has been a source of controversy and extensive debate. When surgery is indicated, there is still no gold standard surgical technique for treating acute grade III ACJ injuries. The methodology of this review was a comprehensive search of PubMed, Medline, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases using various combinations of the keywords "Rockwood," "type III," "grade III," "treatment," "surgery," "acromioclavicular joint," and "dislocation," since the inception of the databases to December 2020. Surgical techniques were divided into two groups. In group 1 were ACJ fixation techniques using hardware such as the hook plate, Kirschner wires, and wire cerclage; group 2 included coracoclavicular (CC) ligament fixation/reconstruction techniques using double buttons, TightRope®, suture anchors, Endobuttons, the Infinity-LockTM Button System, etc. Fourteen studies were selected for the final review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. This review showed better outcome scores in group 2. Overall, complication rates were higher in group 1 compared to group 2. The results of this review show that CC fixation, using suspensory or loop devices, of Rockwood grade III injuries, has better outcomes and fewer complications than fixation of the ACJ with hardware.

Criteria for return to play after operative management of acromioclavicular joint separation: a systematic review

Background

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation is a common cause of shoulder injury among athletes. High-grade injuries may require operative fixation, and comprehensive return-to-play guidelines have not yet been established. The purpose of this study was to summarize criteria for return to play after operative management of AC joint separation.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed from January 1999 to April 2020 to evaluate clinical evidence regarding criteria for return to play after operative management of isolated AC joint separation.

Results

Sixty-three studies with at least 1 explicitly stated return-to-play criterion were identified out of an initial database search of 1253 published articles. Eight separate categories of return-to-play criteria were identified, the most common of which was time from surgery (95.2%). Return-to-play timelines ranged from 2 to 12 months, the most common timeline being 6 months (37.8%). Only 4 (6.3%) studies used conditional criteria to guide return to play, which included range of motion, strength, clinical stability, radiographic stability, functional assessment, safety assessment, and hardware removal.

Conclusion

Most published studies use only time-based criteria for return to play after surgery for AC joint separation, and only a small number of studies use additional subjective or objective criteria. While this systematic review helps provide a foundation for developing a comprehensive return-to-play checklist, further investigation is needed to establish safe and effective guidelines that will enable athletes to safely return to sport and minimize the recurrence of injury.

Nonoperative Management of Traumatic Acromioclavicular Joint Injury: A Clinical Commentary with Clinical Practice Considerations

Traumatic injuries of the acromioclavicular joint result in pain and potentially long-term alterations in scapulohumeral rhythm that occurs due to disruption of the clavicular strut function which is integral to scapular kinematics. Nonoperative treatment remains a valid option in most acromioclavicular joint injuries with the potential of minimizing pain and restoring scapulohumeral rhythm. However, few studies have provided nonoperative treatment details. Therefore, the purpose of this clinical commentary is to discuss the rationale, indications, and techniques of nonoperative treatment and present an organized approach for evaluating and managing such patients based on the best available evidence. Attention will be focused on identifying the treatment methods employed and the results/outcomes of such treatments.

Level of Evidence

5.

Coracoid tunnels in open and arthroscopic treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation: an experimental cadaveric study

PURPOSE

Treatment of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation is not encoded uniquely. Type I and II injuries are usually treated conservatively, while types IV, V and VI surgically. Controversy still exists over the treatment of type III injuries. In the operative approach, there is no agreement on the best surgical technique. Our purpose is to compare the mini-open and arthroscopic approach focusing on the evaluation of the anatomical precision of the coracoid drilling.

METHODS

This is a controlled laboratory study. Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were randomly assigned to the two techniques in order to compare them. We performed essential surgical gestures to drill the tunnel using MINAR® System (mini-open) and Dog-Bone® (ARTHREX, arthroscopic). The anatomical specimens were then subjected to CT-scan investigation. We statistically evaluated the precision of these two techniques analyzing DICOM files using two parameters. Parameter 1 evaluates the tunnel entry area on the superior side of the coracoid. Parameter 2 describes the orientation of the tunnel.

RESULTS

There are no statistically significant differences (95% confidence level) between arthroscopic and mini-open approach about the precision in the location of the coracoid hole, regarding the entry area (p = 1.00) and the orientation (p = 0.196).

CONCLUSION

The evidences collected enable the orthopedic surgeon to choose equally between the two techniques in the treatment of AC joint dislocation toward precision.

Clinical and radiological outcomes of acute Rookwood type IIIB acromioclavicular joint dislocation: Mini-open tightrope technique versus hook plate

OBJECTIVE

Treatment of acute Rookwood type III AC joint dislocation is still controversially discussed. ISAKOS suggested to subdivide type III AC joint injuries into type IIIA (stable) and type IIIB (unstable). The aim of this study was to compare clinical and radiographic outcomes between hook plate fixation and mini-open tightrope for the treatment of acute Rookwood type IIIB acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective clinical study of 112 patients with acute Rookwood type IIIB acromioclavicular joint dislocation who were treated surgically using either mini-open TightRope or hook plate from 2013 to 2019. All patients were followed up for 12 months. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Constant-Murley Score (CMS). Radiological results were assessed with the coracoclavicular distance (CCD), the change in clavicular elevation (ΔCE) and horizontal translation.

RESULTS

The length of incision was significantly shorter in the mini-open TightRope group than that in hook plate group (6.62±0.60 vs. 2.58±0.43 p <0.001). Duration of surgery was significantly shorter in the mini-open TightRope group than that in hook plate group (30.12±6.65 vs. 53.33±12.03; p < 0.001). Total blood loss volume was significantly less in the mini-open TightRope group than in the hook plate group. (23.85±7.88 vs. 70.67±24.62, p < 0.001). VAS and CMS in mini-open TightRope group were better than that in hook plate group at 2 weeks after surgery (VAS: 2.19±0.92 vs. 3.30±1.51, p = 0.002 and CMS 69.80±5.61 vs. 57.53±9.24, p<0.001) and 3 month after surgery (VAS: 1.19±0.48 vs. 3.07±1.36, p<0.001 and CMS 89.30±4.47 vs. 83.20±12.11, p = 0.205). There was no statistically significant difference between two groups at 12 months follow-up including VAS, CMS, the CC distance,ΔCE and the degree of dynamic horizontal translation. There were 2 complications in the hook plate group including 1cut out and 1 superficial wound infection.

CONCLUSION

The mini-open tightrope has better function and relieves pain in the early postoperative period compared to hook plate, and at the last follow up two groups have similar clinical and radiological outcomes. Mini-open TightRope fixation is a good option for the treatment of acute Rockwood types ⅢB AC joint dislocation.

Failure of Acromioclavicular Joint Reconstruction Eight Weeks After Hook Plate Removal: A Case Report

A female patient who underwent successful reconstruction of an acute high-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation with hook plate presented with failure of the reduction eight weeks after removal of the hardware. Surgeons and patients should be aware of the risk of late failure of acromioclavicular reconstruction after removal of the hook plate.

Clinical outcomes of Tightrope system in the treatment of purely ligamentous Lisfranc injuries

Background

Purely ligamentous Lisfranc injuries are mainly caused by low energy damage and often require surgical treatment. There are several operative techniques for rigid fixation to solve this problem clinically. This study evaluated the effect of using the Tightrope system to reconstruct the Lisfranc ligament for elastic fixation.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 11 cases with purely ligamentous Lisfranc injuries treated with the Tightrope system from 2016 to 2019, including 8 male and 3 female. X-ray was performed regularly after operation to measure the distance between the first and second metatarsal joint and the visual analogue scale (VAS) score was used to evaluate pain relief. American orthopedic foot & ankle society (AOFAS) and Maryland foot score were recorded at the last follow-up.

Results

The average follow-up time was 20.5 months (range, 17–24). There was statistically significant difference in the distance between the first and second metatarsal joint and VAS score at 3 months, 6 months, and the last follow-up when compared with preoperative values (P < 0.05).Mean of postoperative AOFAS mid-foot scale and Maryland foot score were 92.4 ± 4.3, 94.1 ± 3.5, respectively. The Tightrope system was not removed and the foot obtained better biomechanical stability. No complications occurred during the operation.

Conclusion

Tightrope system in the treatment of purely ligamentous Lisfranc injuries can stabilize the tarsometatarsal joint and achieve satisfactory effect.

Grade III Acromioclavicular Separations Treated With Suspensory Fixation Techniques: A Systematic Review of Level I Through IV Studies

Purpose

To perform a systematic review comparing clinical outcomes, radiographic outcomes, and complication rates after acute (surgery ≤6 weeks from injury) versus chronic (surgery >6 weeks from injury) acromioclavicular joint reconstructions for grade III injuries using modern suspensory fixation techniques.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of the literature examining acute versus chronic surgical treatment of Rockwood grade III acromioclavicular joint separations using the Cochrane registry, MEDLINE database, and Embase database over the past 10 years according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines. The inclusion criteria included techniques using suspensory fixation, a minimum study size of 3 patients, a minimum follow-up period of 6 months, human studies, and English-language studies. The methodology of each study was evaluated using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) tool for nonrandomized studies and the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias (RoB 2) tool for randomized controlled trials.

Results

The systematic review search yielded 20 studies with a total of 253 patients. There were 2 prospective randomized controlled trials, but most of the included studies were retrospective. On comparison of acute surgery (≤6 weeks) and chronic surgery (>6 weeks), individual studies reported a range of Constant scores of 84.4 to 98.2 and 80.8 to 94.1, respectively. The ranges of radiographic coracoclavicular distances reported at final follow-up also favored acute reconstructions, which showed improved reduction (9.2-15.7 mm and 11.7-18.6 mm, respectively). The reported complication rates ranged from 7% to 67% for acute reconstructions and from 0% to 30% for chronic reconstructions.

Conclusions

The ranges in the Constant score may favor acute reconstructions, but because of the heterogeneity in the surgical techniques in the literature, no definitive recommendations can be made regarding optimal timing.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, systematic review of Level I through IV studies.

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

PURPOSE

Despite the available classifications, diagnostics and treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries are still vague and challenging for trauma and shoulder surgeons. This study aimed to evaluate the dynamic radiographic as well as clinical outcome of operatively and conservatively treated Rockwood (RW) type III and IV ACJ dislocations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients with RW type III and IV ACJ dislocations between 2009 and 2016 (n = 226) were included in this retrospective data analysis with a prospective follow-up examination. According to their injury classification, patients were subdivided in an operative and conservative treatment group. Examiner blinded clinical evaluation including the constant score (CS), American shoulder and elbow surgery (ASES) score, the acromioclavicular joint instability (ACJI) score, visual analog scale (VAS), bilateral force measurements, and posttraumatic/postsurgical sequelae were assessed. Fluoroscopic evaluations including dynamic stability assessment with functional axillary views were performed for every patient.

RESULTS

For follow-up examination (mean 4.8 years ± 0.3 SEM) 56 patients (29 RW type III, 27 RW type IV) were available. In patients with RW type III ACJ dislocations [operative (n = 10); conservative (n = 19)] prolonged duration of treatment was seen in operatively treated patients (p < 0.05). Clear improvement could be shown for the ACJI score (p < 0.05) and coracoclavicular (CC) and acromioclavicular (AC) distance (p < 0.05) in the operative group. In patients with RW type IV ACJ dislocations [operative (n = 18); conservative (n = 9)] superior clinical results were found in operated patients with highly significant differences for the ACJI score (p < 0.001). Radiographic dynamic horizontal analysis showed nearly normalized anteroposterior translation in operated patients (p < 0.05). No differences were found regarding arthroscopic or open procedures.

CONCLUSION

Accurate diagnostics including sufficient dynamic stability assessment with functional axillary views are strongly advised for patients with ACJ dislocations. Conservative treatment should be recommended for patients with RW type III ACJ dislocations, due to shorter duration of treatment with good clinical results but lacking operative risks. In patients with RW type IV ACJ dislocations, surgical treatment is recommended because of superior clinical and radiological results.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Biologic and synthetic ligament reconstructions achieve better functional scores compared to osteosynthesis in the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation

PURPOSE

To systematically review the outcomes of surgical treatments of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

METHODS

Studies were identified by electronic databases (Ovid, PubMed). All studies reporting functional and radiological outcomes of surgical treatments of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations were included. Following data were extracted: authors and year, study design, level of evidence, number of patients, age, classification of acromioclavicular joint dislocation, time to surgery, surgical technique, follow-up, clinical and imaging outcomes, complications, and failures. Descriptive statistics was used, when a data pooling was not possible. Comparable outcomes were pooled to generate summary outcomes reported as frequency-weighted values. Quality appraisal was assessed through the MINORS checklist.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-three studies were included for a total of 4473 shoulders. Mean age of participants was 36.9 years. Mean follow-up was 42.06 months. Arthroscopy showed better ASES (p < 0.0001) and lower VAS pain score (p = 0.0249) compared to an open approach. Biologic and synthetic reconstructions demonstrated better results over osteosynthesis techniques. Biologic techniques showed overall better Constant (p = 0.0001) and DASH (p = 0.0215) scores, while synthetic reconstruction showed better UCLA score (p = 0.0001). Among suture buttons, triple button showed overall better results in Constant (p = 0.0001) and VAS (p = 0.0001) scores, while better results in DASH score (p = 0.0003) were achieved by 2 double button techniques. Overall, the level of evidence was low.

CONCLUSION

Biological and synthetic reconstructions achieved better functional scores compared to osteosynthesis. Among suture buttons, the triple button showed better functional performance.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Rockwood Grade-III Acromioclavicular Joint Separation: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Treatment Options

Background:

The treatment of Rockwood Grade-III acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation has been widely disputed since the introduction of the classification system. The present literature does not reach consensus on whether operative or nonoperative management is more advantageous, nor does it effectively distinguish between operative measures. We hypothesized that nonoperative treatment of Rockwood Grade-III AC joint separation would be more cost-effective when compared with surgical options.

Methods:

We created a decision-tree model outlining the treatment of Rockwood Grade-III separations using nonoperative management or hook-plate, suture-button, or allograft fixation. After nonoperative intervention, the possible outcomes predicted by the model were uneventful healing, delayed operative management, a second round of sling use and physical therapy, or no reduction and no action; and after operative intervention, the possible outcomes were uneventful healing, loss of reduction and revision, and depending on the implant, loss of reduction and no action, or removal of the implant. A systematic review was conducted, and probabilities of each model state were averaged. A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted both through rollback analysis yielding net monetary benefit and through incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). Thresholds of $50,000/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) and $100,000/QALY were used for ICER analysis. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis was utilized to determine whether differential probabilities could impact the model.

Results:

Forty-five papers were selected from a potential 768 papers identified through our literature review. Nonoperative treatment was used as our reference case and showed dominance over all 3 of the operative measures at both the $50,000 and $100,000 ICER thresholds. Nonoperative treatment also showed the greatest net monetary benefit. Nonoperative management yielded the lowest total cost ($6,060) and greatest utility (0.95 QALY). Sensitivity analysis showed that allograft fixation became the favored technique at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $50,000 if the rate of failure of nonoperative treatment rose to 14.6%. Similarly, at the $100,000 threshold, allograft became dominant if the probability of failure of nonoperative treatment rose to 22.8%.

Conclusions:

The cost-effectiveness of nonoperative treatment is fueled by its notably lower costs and overall high rates of success in Grade-III separations. It is important to note that, in our analysis, the societal cost (measured in lost productivity) of nonoperative treatment neared that of surgical treatment, but the cost from the health-care system perspective was minimal. Physicians should bear in mind the sensitivity of these conclusions and should consider cost-effectiveness analyses in their decision-making guidelines.

Level of Evidence:

Economic and Decision Analysis Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The frequency of reduction loss after arthroscopic fixation of acute acromioclavicular dislocations using a double-button device, and its effect on clinical and radiological results

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of reduction loss of more than 3 mm on clinical and radiological results after at least 2 years of follow-up after arthroscopic fixation of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations using a double-button device.

Methods

Thirty-six patients who had acute (< 3 weeks old), type III or V acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations underwent arthroscopic fixation of the AC joint using a double-button device. Clinical and radiological evaluations were performed at preoperative, postoperative first day, 3 months and last follow-up. When the coracoclavicular (CC) distances of patients at the last follow-up were compared to the early postop CC distances, those with a difference of 3 mm or less were grouped as group A and those with a difference of more than 3 mm were grouped as group B.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of age, gender, follow-up time, time from injury to surgery, return to work, and distribution of Rockwood classification. Pre-operative CC distance was reduced from 18.7 ± 3.5 to 8.5 ± 0.6 in the early postoperative period. Anatomic reduction was achieved in all patients compared with the unaffected side (CC distance 8.6 ± 0.7). However, the CC distance increased to 9.9 ± 1.5 at the third-month follow-up and increased to 11 ± 2.7 at the last follow-up. There were no significant Constant score differences between the groups in the preoperative and last follow-up periods (p > 0.05). At the last follow-up, the mean Acromioclavicular Joint Instability (ACJI) score of group A was 84.4 ± 8, whereas it was 68.3 ± 8.3 for group B, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the subjective evaluation and aesthetic subjective satisfaction values of group B were lower than group A (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Reduction loss of more than 3 mm was observed in 25% of patients after arthroscopic fixation of acute acromioclavicular dislocations using a double-button device. Although this loss did not create a statistically significant difference in Constant scores, AC joint-specific tests such as ACJI, subjective evaluation, and aesthetic subjective satisfaction values were significantly impaired.

Grade 3 AC joint injury: A survey of current practice in the United Kingdom

Acromio-clavicular (AC) joint injuries are a common injury seen in athletes and represent 9% to 12% of all shoulder injuries. There is no clear consensus on treatment of grade 3 injuries. We conducted a survey among upper limb surgeons in the United Kingdom to review commonly accepted practise. We found that majority of surgeons never did stress view. Most surgeons favoured surgery only if needed but not first choice. There is no consensus on timing of surgery. There are many fixation options available for AC joint dislocation and we found that surgeon's preferences were quiet wide for choosing fixation method. That is also evident from this questionnaire as there is no consensus in orthopaedic surgeons for ideal treatment of type 3 AC joint dislocations. Authors recommend randomized controlled trial to formulate definite treatment plan.

Acromion Clavicular Joint Reconstruction with LARS Ligament in Acute Dislocation

BACKGROUND

The acromion clavicular joint dislocations are common injuries of the shoulder. The severity is dependent upon the degree of ligamentous injury. Surgical treatment is typically performed in higher grade acromioclavicular separation with several static and dynamic operative procedures with or without primary ligament replacement.

METHODS

47 patients with acute Rockwood type III, IV, and V injuries were treated surgically with LARS reconstruction. The success of technique was evaluated by radiographic outcomes for each patient at every follow-up visit (one, three, 12 months), while to assess pain reduction and clinical evaluation Visual Analogue scale score (VAS) and Constant-Murley score (CMA) was performed, respectively. An One Way Analysis of Variance (Kruskal-Wallis test), a multiple comparison Turket test, or a t-test (Mann-Whitney Rank Sum Test) were used when required.

RESULTS

Follow-up radiographs revealed maintenance of anatomical reduction in 41 patients, and no bone erosions has been identified. In short-term joint functional recovery has been observed. Indeed, after 12 months pain on the VAS-scale in all groups decreased significantly (P < 0.05), and the CMS revealed a significant overall improvement (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that the use of the LARS allows to provide stability to the joint and especially to ensure its natural elasticity, relieving pain and improving joint function already one month post-surgery.

Return to sport after surgical treatment for high-grade (Rockwood III-VI) acromioclavicular dislocation

PURPOSE

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations are common in a young and active population, especially in people performing contact sports. Full recovery with a fast and high rate of return to sport is desirable. This systematic review aims to combine patient outcomes in order to help surgeons in addressing patient expectations regarding the return to sport after surgical intervention for AC dislocations.

METHODS

To conduct this systematic review, the PRISMA guidelines were followed. Articles were included if written in English or Dutch and evaluated return to sport after any type of surgical intervention for Rockwood types III to VI AC dislocations in patients practicing sports. Outcome parameters were return to sport, time to return to sport, level of sport, functional outcome scores and complications.

RESULTS

Twelve studies involving 498 patients were included, of which 462 patients practiced sports. 432 (94%) patients returned to sport. The weighted mean time to return to sport was 4.0 months. 338 out of 401 patients (84%) returned to the same level of pre-injury sport and 35 patients (9%) lowered their level of sport. The weighted mean Constant score was 92 out of 100.

CONCLUSION

The rate of return to sport after surgical intervention for Rockwood (RW) III-VI AC dislocations is high. However, the level of evidence was low and due to the methodological heterogeneity between studies, subgroup analyses of return to sport outcomes were not feasible.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic review of level I-IV studies, level IV.

Motion Tracking for Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment of Upper Limb Movements Following Acromioclavicular Joint Ligament Reconstruction: A Pilot Study

Background:

Technological tools as robotic devices and wearable sensors can provide accurate and repeatable measurements of physical variables (e.g., position, velocities, forces) which can be used for quantitative and qualitative assessment of movement analysis and upper limb motor performance.

Objective:

The study aims to propose a quantitative and qualitative assessment of upper limb motor performance by means of seven kinematic parameters recorded by a passive mechatronic device in patients who underwent a surgical procedure for ligament reconstruction following acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

Method:

Five patients (mean age: 40 ± 12 years) with acromioclavicular joint dislocation were enrolled.

A passive end-effector mechatronic device characterized by 7 degrees of freedom and designed for the assessment of upper limb motor performance - especially for measuring the hand position in three-dimensional space - was used.

The Constant-Murley score and seven kinematic parameters were used as clinical outcome measure and quantitative and qualitative assessment, respectively.

Results:

The preliminary results of this study show no significant differences between the impaired arm and unimpaired arm: the end-effector passive mechatronic device used in this study is able to provide an overall assessment of the upper limb motor performance following shoulder impairment.

Conclusion:

The motion tracker can be easily used as effective tool for quantitative and qualitative assessment of upper limb motor performance, even several years after the surgical operation.

Return to Sport and Clinical Outcomes After Surgical Management of Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To evaluate the rate at which athletes return to sport after surgical management of acute and chronic acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations.

METHODS

Three databases-PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE-were searched from database inception until October 28, 2017, by 2 reviewers independently and in duplicate. The inclusion criteria were English language studies that reported return to sport outcomes in patients undergoing surgical management of AC joint dislocations.

RESULTS

Overall, 12 studies with a combined total of 315 patients met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 33.8 years (range, 18-65 years) and a mean follow-up of 34.9 months (range, 6-126 months). Of the 12 included studies, 1 was a prospective comparative study (Level II), 1 was a retrospective comparative study (Level III), 1 was a prospective case series (Level IV), and 9 were retrospective case series (Level IV). The rates of return to any level of sport ranged from 94% to 100% (I² = 0%), whereas the rates of return to the preinjury level of sport ranged from 62% to 100% (I² = 61%). The pooled rate of return to preinjury level of sport in type V AC joint separations was 86.2% (95% confidence interval = 68.1%-98.0%), whereas that after type III or IV AC joint injuries was 89.6% (95% confidence interval = 79.9%-96.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

An almost perfect rate of return to sport participation after surgical management of AC joint dislocations have been reported, with most returning to their preinjury level of sport. The rates of return to sport were comparable across the different types of injuries and surgical procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level II, III, and IV investigations.

Treatment of AC dislocation by reconstructing CC and AC ligaments with allogenic tendons compared with hook plates

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes between allograft reconstruction and hook plate fixation for acute dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint with a minimum 2-year follow-up.

METHODS

A retrospective comparative study of patients treated for acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation from February 2010 to December 2014 in our hospital, consisting of 16 patients who were followed-up, was performed. Eight patients were treated for acute AC dislocation and underwent surgical reconstruction as follows: the coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular ligaments were reconstructed with the allogenic tendon. The other eight patients were treated with hook plates to maintain the AC joint reset. At the latest follow-up, radiographic analysis and the Constant and University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) scores were used to evaluate shoulder function. The satisfaction of the patients in terms of the efficacy and visual analog scale (VAS) data were also recorded.

RESULTS

After an average follow-up of 30.3 months (range 24-46 months), no patient had dislocated their joint again at the final follow-up based on X-ray examination. The Constant score was 94.4 for the allogenic tendon group and 93.8 for the hook plate group (P = 0.57). According to the UCLA scale (P = 0.23) or VAS (P = 0.16), we found no significant difference between the two groups. All patients reported that they were very satisfied or satisfied with the outcome of surgery, and no significant difference (P = 0.08) was found between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of allogenic tendon for reconstruction of the coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular ligaments shows excellent outcomes in terms of the recovery of clinical function or radiographic outcomes for acute AC dislocation. Compared with the hook plate, the hardware did not need to be removed.

Comparison of surgical and conservative treatment of Rockwood type-III acromioclavicular dislocation: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus on the effects of surgical versus conservative treatment on Rockwood type-III dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint in general orthopedic practice. The objective of this meta-analysis was to compare the clinical outcomes of patients managed surgically and conservatively following type-III acromioclavicular (AC) dislocation.

METHODS

The Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE via Ovid SP, and PubMed databases were searched for randomized controlled trials and observational studies. Patient data were pooled using standard meta-analytic approaches. For continuous variables, the weighted mean difference was used. For dichotomous data, the odds ratio was calculated.

RESULTS

The current analysis included 10 trials on this topic, and the results demonstrated that there were no significant differences between surgical and conservative treatment in terms of pain, weakness, tenderness, post-traumatic arthritis, restriction of strength, unsatisfactory function, and scores (Constant, UCLA, Imatani, SST, DASH, Larsen). Analyses of ossification of the coracoclavicular ligament (OR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.01-2.61) and osteolysis of the lateral clavicle (OR = 2.87, 95% CI = 1.27-6.52) suggested better function with conservative treatment versus surgical treatment, but the latter was superior to conservative treatment with regard to loss of anatomic reduction. Only 1 study showed a higher acromioclavicular joint instability score for surgical management compared with conservative management (P < .00001).

CONCLUSION

In the management of Rockwood type-III AC dislocation, conservative treatment is superior to surgical treatment. Nonoperative treatment results in a lower incidence of ossification of the coracoclavicular ligament and osteolysis of the lateral clavicle compared with operative treatment. However, there was no statistical difference between operative and nonoperative treatment in terms of clinical outcomes.

New insights in the treatment of acromioclavicular separation

A direct force on the superior aspect of the shoulder may cause acromioclavicular (AC) dislocation or separation. Severe dislocations can lead to chronic impairment, especially in the athlete and high-demand manual laborer. The dislocation is classified according to Rockwood. Types I and II are treated nonoperatively, while types IV, V and VI are generally treated operatively. Controversy exists regarding the optimal treatment of type III dislocations in the high-demand patient. Recent evidence suggests that these should be treated nonoperatively initially. Classic surgical techniques were associated with high complication rates, including recurrent dislocations and hardware breakage. In recent years, many new techniques have been introduced in order to improve the outcomes. Arthroscopic reconstruction or repair techniques have promising short-term results. This article aims to provide a current concepts review on the treatment of AC dislocations with emphasis on recent developments.

Treatment of Primary Acute Patellar Dislocation: Systematic Review and Quantitative Synthesis of the Literature

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes, rate of redislocation, and complications after conservative or surgical procedures used to treat primary acute patellar dislocation.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, and Google Scholar databases using various combinations of the keywords "patella," "dislocation," "treatment," "acute," "primary" was performed. The following data were extracted: demographics, chondral defects and soft tissue lesions, outcome measurements, type of management, recurrence of instability, and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 2134 knees in 2086 patients were included, with an average age at dislocation of 20.3 years. The average Kujula score was 75.6 for patients treated conservatively and 88.7 for patients undergoing surgical treatment in the short-medium follow-up (less than 5 years); the average Kujula score was 87.5 for patients treated conservatively and 86.6 for patients undergoing surgical treatment in the long-term follow-up (more than 5 years). The rate of recurrence was significantly lower in the surgical group (25%) than in the conservative group (36.4%). The overall complication rate was 6.5% (29 of 441 knees) in the surgical management group. No complications were reported for patients treated conservatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment of primary acute patellar dislocation leads to significantly lower rate of redislocation and provides better short-medium clinical outcomes, whereas in the long-term follow-up, results of patients treated conservatively were as good as those of surgical patients. Further randomized controlled trials, describing anatomical abnormalities and soft-tissue integrity that may influence the choice of treatment, are needed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic review, level IV.

The surgical treatment of acromioclavicular joint injuries

Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries are common, but their incidence is probably underestimated. As the treatment of some sub-types is still debated, we reviewed the available literature to obtain an overview of current management.

We analysed the literature using the PubMed search engine.

There is consensus on the treatment of Rockwood type I and type II lesions and for high-grade injuries of types IV, V and VI. The treatment of type III injuries remains controversial, as none of the studies has proven a significant benefit of one procedure when compared with another.

Several approaches can be considered in reaching a valid solution for treating ACJ lesions. The final outcome is affected by both vertical and horizontal post-operative ACJ stability. Synthetic devices, positioned using early open or arthroscopic procedures, are the main choice for young people.

Type III injuries should be managed surgically only in cases with high-demand sporting or working activities.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;2:432–437. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160085.

Sports activity after anatomic acromioclavicular joint stabilisation with flip-button technique

PURPOSE

Sports activity after surgical AC joint stabilisation has not been comprehensively evaluated to date. The aim of this study was to determine rate, level and time to return to sports after AC joint stabilisation and to identify the influence of overhead sports on post-operative sports activity.

METHODS

In this retrospective case series, a total of 68 patients with a high-grade AC joint dislocation (Rockwood type V) were stabilised using a single TightRope technique. Fifty-five patients (80.9 %) with median age of 42.0 (range, 18-65) years completed questionnaires regarding sports activity before and after surgery. Clinical outcome and complications were also evaluated. Forty-three patients participated in sports regularly before injury. Their sports activity was rated according to Allain, and non-overhead and overhead sports were differentiated.

RESULTS

At median follow-up of 24 (18-45) months, 41 of 43 patients (95.3 %) had returned to sports. 63 % returned to the same sports activity as before injury. 16.3 % needed to adapt the type of sports to reduce demanding activities. 11.6 % reduced the frequency and 32.5 % the intensity of sports. The median time to return to sports was 9.5 (3-18) months. Overhead athletes (Allain Type III and IV) had to reduce their sports activity significantly more often (11.8 vs. 53.8 %; p = 0.011) and needed more time to return to sports (9.5 vs. 4.5 months; p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

After stabilisation of AC joint dislocation, the majority of patients returned to sports after a substantial period of time. Overhead athletes, in particular, required more time and had to considerably reduce their sports activity. The findings impact therapeutic decision-making after AC joint injury and help with the prognosis and assessment of rehabilitation progress.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Surgical versus conservative management of Type III acromioclavicular dislocation: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

The management of Type III acromioclavicular (AC) dislocations is still controversial. We wished to compare the rate of recurrence and outcome scores of operative versus non-operative treatment of patients with Type III AC dislocations.

SOURCE OF DATA

A systematic review of the literature was performed by applying the PRISMA guidelines according to the PRISMA checklist and algorithm. A search in Medline, PubMed, Cochrane and CINAHL was performed using combinations of the following keywords: 'dislocation', 'Rockwood', 'type three', 'treatment', 'acromioclavicular' and 'joint'.

AREAS OF AGREEMENT

Fourteen studies were included, evaluating 646 shoulders. The rate of recurrence in the surgical group was 14%. No statistical significant differences were found between conservative and surgical approaches in terms of postoperative osteoarthritis and persistence of pain, although persistence of pain seemed to occur less frequently in patients undergoing a surgical treatment.

AREAS OF CONTROVERSY

Persistence of pain seemed to occur less frequently in patients undergoing surgery.

GROWING POINTS

Persistence of pain seems to occur less frequently in patients treated surgically for a Type III AC dislocation.

AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH

There is insufficient evidence to establish the effects of surgical versus conservative treatment on functional outcome of patients with AC dislocation. High-quality randomized controlled clinical trials are needed to establish whether there is a difference in functional outcome.

Concomitant glenohumeral pathologies associated with acute and chronic grade III and grade V acromioclavicular joint injuries

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to identify the risk of concomitant glenohumeral pathologies with acromioclavicular joint injuries grade III and V.

METHODS

Patients who underwent arthroscopically-assisted stabilization of acromioclavicular joint injuries grade III or grade V between 01/2007 and 12/2015 were identified in the patient databases of two surgical centres. Gender, age at index surgery, grade of acromioclavicular joint injury (Rockwood III or Rockwood V), and duration between injury and index surgery (classified as acute or chronic) were of interest. Concomitant glenohumeral pathologies were noted and their treatment was classified as debridement or reconstructive procedure.

RESULTS

A total of 376 patients (336 male, 40 female) were included. Mean age at time of arthroscopic acromioclavicular joint reconstruction surgery was 42.1 ± 14.0 years. Overall, 201 patients (53%) had one or more concomitant glenohumeral pathologies. Lesions of the biceps tendon complex and rotator cuff were the most common. Forty-five patients (12.0%) had concomitant glenohumeral pathologies that required an additional repair. The remaining 156 patients (41.5%) received a debridement of their concomitant pathologies. Rockwood grade V compared to Rockwood grade III (p = 0.013; odds ratio 1.7), and chronic compared to acute injury were significantly associated with having a concomitant glenohumeral pathology (p = 0.019; odds ratio 1.7). The probability of having a concomitant glenohumeral pathology was also significantly associated with increasing age (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Concomitant glenohumeral pathologies were observed in 53% of surgically treated patients with an acute or chronic acromioclavicular joint injury of either grade III or V. Twenty-two percent of these patients with concomitant glenohumeral pathologies received an additional dedicated repair procedure. Although a significant difference in occurrence of concomitant glenohumeral pathologies was seen between Rockwood grades III and V, and between acute and chronic lesions, increasing age was identified as the most dominant predictor.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.

[Injuries of the acromioclavicular joint: Hook plate versus arthroscopy]

Acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are common in clinical practice. The hook plate is a well-established conventional operative treatment option for high grade instability; however, arthroscopically-assisted flexible double button techniques are increasingly being used. Both procedures lead to good or excellent results. The advantages of the hook plate are the simple surgical technique and the possibility of an early functional aftercare. The minimally invasive one-step procedure with the possibility of identification and treatment of frequently concomitant glenohumeral pathologies is advantageous for the arthroscopic technique but mobilization is more restrictive. Available comparative studies have shown no significant clinical differences but a tendency towards better results with a higher degree of acceptance among patients for the arthroscopic and minimally invasive non-rigid double button procedures.

Arthroscopic Reconstruction of the Coracoclavicular Ligaments Using a Coracoid Cerclage Technique

This technical note discusses the arthroscopic coracoid cerclage technique for double-bundle coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction in patients with nonacute symptomatic high-grade acromioclavicular separation injuries. This technique allows for an anatomic graft reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligaments through an arthroscopic approach without the requirement to drill into the coracoid process. Early results are promising with high patient satisfaction and excellent reported clinical and radiographic outcomes. We believe this technique to be an anatomic, less invasive alternative to a complex shoulder procedure while sparing the structural integrity of the coracoid process and also allowing the surgeon to convert easily to a more traditional open surgical technique as necessary.