Clinical outcomes of bending versus non-bending of the plate hook in acromioclavicular joint dislocation

Background: We aimed to assess the effect of plate hook bending in treatment of acromioclavicular (AC) dislocation by analyzing clinical and radiological results according to the angle of the plate hook (APH).Methods: This was a retrospective, observational, case-control study including 76 patients with acute AC joint dislocation that were divided into two groups according to treatment with bent or unbent plate hook. The visual analog scale (VAS), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder score, and range of motion (ROM) were evaluated as clinical outcomes. Comparative coracoclavicular distance (CCD) was measured to evaluate radiological outcomes.Results: While the VAS and ASES of the bending group at 4 months after surgery were significantly higher (P=0.021, P=0.019), the rest of those and ROM showed no significant difference. The initial CCD decreased from 183.2%±25.4% to 114.3%±18.9% at the final follow-up in the bending group and decreased from 188.2%±34.4% to 119.1%±16.7% in the non-bending group, with no statistical difference (P=0.613). The changes between the initial and post-metal removal CCD were 60.2%±11.2% and 57.3%±10.4%, respectively, with no statistical difference (P=0.241). The non-bending group showed greater subacromial osteolysis (odds ratio, 3.87). Pearson’s coefficients for the correlation between APH and VAS at 4 months after surgery and for that between APH and ASES at 4 months after surgery were 0.74 and –0.63 (P=0.027 and P=0.032), respectively.Conclusions: The APH was associated with improved postoperative pain and clinical outcomes before implant removal and with reduced complications; therefore, plate hook bending is more useful clinically during plate implantation.

Acromioclavicular Joint Instability on Cross-Body Adduction View: The Biomechanical Effect of Acromioclavicular and Coracoclavicular Ligaments Sectioning

Background The relationship between acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation, corresponding radiological evaluation, and ligament injuries remains controversial. We hypothesized that AC and trapezoid ligament injuries induce AC joint instability, and the clavicle can override the acromion on cross-body adduction view without conoid ligament injury. We aimed to investigate how biomechanically sectioning the AC and coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments contributes to AC joint instability in the cross-body adduction position using fresh-frozen cadaver models. Methods Six fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were used in this study, comprising five male and one female specimen, with a mean age of 68.7 (range, 51–87) years). The left side of the trunk and upper limb, and the cervical and thoracic vertebrae and sternum were firmly fixed with an external fixator. The displacement of the distal end of the clavicle relative to the acromion was measured using an electromagnetic tracking device. We simulated AC joint dislocation by sequential resection of AC ligament, AC joint capsule, and CC ligaments in the following order of stages. Stage 0: Intact AC and CC ligaments and acromioclavicular joint capsule; stage 1: Completely sectioned AC ligament and joint disc; stage 2: Sectioned trapezoid ligament; and stage 3: Sectioned conoid ligament. The superior clavicle displacement related to the acromion was measured in the horizontal adduction position, and clavicle overriding on the acromion was assessed radiologically at each stage. Data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance and post-hoc tests. Results Superior displacement was 0.3 mm at stage 1, 6.5 mm at stage 2, and 10.7 mm at stage 3. On the cross-body adduction view, there was no distal clavicle overriding at stages 0 and 1, and distal clavicle overriding was observed in five cases (5/6: 83%) at stage 2 and in six cases (6/6: 100%) at stage 3. Conclusion We found that AC and trapezoid ligament sectioning induced AC joint instability and that the clavicle could override the acromion on cross-body adduction view regardless of conoid ligament sectioning. AC and trapezoid ligament injuries may lead to significant AC joint instability, and the distal clavicle may subsequently override the acromion.

Reconstruction of the Coracoclavicular Ligament With Palmaris Longus Tendon and Mersilene Tape for Acromioclavicular Dislocations

Background Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is common among shoulder injuries, and various surgical methods have been introduced for effective ligament reconstruction. Reconstruction of the coracoclavicular (CC) ligament in the anatomical position using autologous tendons is a recent surgical trend. This study is to report clinical and radiologic results of reconstruction of the CC ligament using an autologous palmaris longus tendon interweaved with Mersilene tape (PLMT) with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Methods This retrospective study analyzed 76 patients (mean age, 43.4 ± 11.2 years) with AC joint dislocation treated by reconstruction of the CC ligament with PLMT, from March 2004 to February 2017. The mean follow-up period was 28 ± 6.7 months (range, 24–66 months). The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain assessment, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons rating scale (ASES), and Constant Score (CS) were used to evaluate clinical outcomes at the final follow-up. CC and AC distances were measured using anteroposterior (AP) X-ray preoperatively, 6 weeks postoperatively, and at the final follow-up for radiologic outcomes. Complications were also assessed. Results The mean preoperative VAS, ASES, CS were 5.7 ± 0.7, 77.1 ± 6.2, and 61.5 ± 5.2, respectively. These scores at the last follow-up improved to 2.1 ± 0.5, 90.9 ± 4.3, and 94 ± 7.0, respectively (p = 0.043, p < 0.001, p < 0.001). The mean preoperative CC and AC distances were 16.49 ± 3.73 mm and 13.84 ± 3.98 mm, respectively. They were 7.16 ± 1.22 mm and 3.86 ± 2.34 mm at 6 weeks postoperative, and became 9.29 ± 2.72 mm and 5.30 ± 2.09 mm at the final follow-up. The mean CC and AC distances decreased significantly at the final follow-up (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). Although a slight re-widening of the CC distance occurred in 10 patients (13.1%), most patients regained full range of motion of the affected shoulder at the final follow-up. Conclusion The CC ligament reconstruction with PLMT for the treatment of AC joint dislocation showed good clinical and radiological results. This technique could be a good alternative treatment for AC dislocations.

Comparison of the TightRope system versus hook plate in acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations: a retrospective analysis

This study compared the results of the minimally invasive coracoclavicular (CC) fixation with a single TightRope (MITR) procedure and the hook plate (HP) procedure for acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation treatment. Sixteen patients with a mean age of 44.9 ± 11 years were treated with the MITR procedure. Nineteen patients with a mean age of 40.2 ± 8.7 years were treated using the HP procedure. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, Constant–Murley Score (CMS), and University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder score. Vertical displacement of the clavicle with reference to the height of the acromion was measured in standard anteroposterior radiographs. The mean follow-up was 27 months in the MITR group and 30 months in the HP group. No statistically significant differences were found between the MITR group and the HR group in terms of VAS score (0.4 ± 0.6 vs 0.7 ± 0.6, P = 0.138), UCLA Shoulder score (33.9 ± 2.5 vs 33.7 ± 1.5, P = 0.843), or CMS (95.7 ± 7.3 vs 93.7 ± 6.6, P = 0.400). No redislocation was identified in the HP group, while redislocation occurred in 1 of 16 (6.3%) patients in the MITR group. One patient in the HP group (5.3%) had acromial osteolysis, while no acromial osteolysis was found in the MITR group. No other adverse events, such as infections, tunnel widening, fractures, or implant-related complications, were observed. Both procedures provided satisfactory results. The HP procedure provided better reduction, while the MITR procedure provided a slightly lower tendency of pain. Long-term follow-up is needed to investigate the clinical outcomes and radiological outcomes of both groups.

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

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

A retrospective comparative study of arthroscopic fixation for acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation: coracoid sling technique versus single-tunnel technique

Background Arthroscopic fixation in acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation has become more popular and shown good clinical outcomes. This study aims to evaluate and compare the efficacy of single-tunnel technique (SST) and coracoid sling technique (CST) for the treatment of acute AC joint dislocation in order to provide more suitable treatment options and clinical recommendations for orthopaedic surgeons. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the charts of patients with acute Rockwood type IV and V AC joint dislocation who had undergone arthroscopic fixation procedure with SST or CST fixation between June 2009 and June 2018. A total of 90 consecutive patients identified from chart review were picked and divided into SST and CST groups, with 45 members in each group. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score, Constant shoulder functionality score, Karlsson AC joint score, the time of return to sports and activity, and plain radiographs of the affected shoulder at different time points of follow-up were all recorded for a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. Results The majority of the patients in both groups recovered to their preoperative activity levels with few complications. The average postoperative AC and coracoclavicular (CC) distances were significantly narrower than preoperative measurements in both groups, and no significant difference was observed between the two groups at 2 years post-op. The CST group had reduced operative time, shorter time of recovery of shoulder movements, higher Constant functionality scores and Karlsson AC joint scores, and fewer complications than the STT group at the last clinical follow-up. Conclusions CST technique achieved superior clinical outcomes with fewer complications compared to the traditional STT technique in arthroscopic treatment of acute AC joint dislocation. This technique could be considered as a reliable method for AC joint reconstruction.

Ipsilateral midshaft clavicle fracture and acromioclavicular joint dislocation: a review of literature and evidence-based diagnosis guidelines

Background: Ipsilateral midshaft clavicle fracture and AC joint dislocation are rare, with very few cases reported. Once the AC joint dislocation were missed diagnosis, the shoulder function may be affected and medical dispute was easy to occur. The aim of this study was to gather data relating to ipsilateral midshaft clavicle fracture and AC joint dislocation to develop evidence-based diagnosis guidelines as none are currently available.Methods: A study was conducted of the PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify cases of ipsilateral midshaft clavicle fracture and AC joint dislocation. Data collected about each case included age and gender of the patient, mechanism of injury, fracture and dislocation classification. The authors report 2 additional ipsilateral midshaft clavicle fracture and AC joint dislocation cases.Results: 21 cases were identified for inclusion in this research, 19 from the literature and 2 reported by the authors. All the patients were injured by high energy trauma. For the midshaft fracture, 16/21 (76.2%) patients belonged to Type A classification, and 5/21 (23.8%) patients belonged to Type B classification. For AC joint dislocation, 11/21 (47.6%) patients belonged to Type IV classification, 4/21 (19.0%) patients belonged to Type VI classification, 5/21 (23.8%) patients belonged to Type III classification and 1/21 (4.7%) patients belonged to Type V classification.Conclusions: There are limited data available about the diagnosis of ipsilateral midshaft clavicle fracture and AC joint dislocation. From the cases reviewed, we find that simple midshaft clavicle caused by high energy injuries may be associated with ipsilateral AC joint dislocation. Physical examination, careful observation of preoperative X-ray and fluoroscopy including the AC joint during operation were key to diagnose the injury. Level of Evidence Level III, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The Infinity-Lock System for Chronic Grade III AC Joint Dislocation: A Novel Technique, Rehabilitation Protocol and Short Term Results

Background: the choice of treatment of chronic grade III acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is controversial. Several surgical techniques have been described in the literature, responding differently to nonoperative treatment. The aim of this study is to describe a modified technique of stabilizing an AC joint dislocation with the new Infinity-Lock Button System, in order to demonstrate that it is effective in optimizing outcomes and decreasing complications. Methods: this is a retrospective study of 15 patients who underwent surgical stabilization of the AC joint dislocation between 2018 and 2019, through modified surgical technique using the Infinity-Lock Button System. Active range of motion (ROM), Specific Acromio Clavicular Score (SACS) and Constant Score (CS) were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively at last 18 months follow up. Patients rated their outcomes as very good, good, satisfactory, or unsatisfactory. Results: a total of twelve patients rated their outcome as very good and three as good; no patients were dissatisfied with surgery. The mean Constant Score increased from 38 points preoperatively to 95 postoperatively, the average SACS score decreased from 52 points preoperatively to 10 postoperatively, both significantly. No complications were detected. Conclusion: the described technique is effective for treatment of chronic grade III AC joint dislocation, resulting in elevated satisfaction ratings and predictable outcomes. Nevertheless, further longer term follow-up studies are required.

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

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

Acromion Fracture and Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: A Case Report

Background: Acromion fractures are rare injuries that may occur because of shoulder trauma. This may be associated with distal clavicle fractures, which can be an indication for surgery. There are several methods, which are used for fixation of this type of fractures. Case Presentation: In this paper, we presented a 34 years old man with acromion fracture in contribution with acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation. We applied a new method for fixation of this fracture. The fracture was fixed by 2 screws and AC Joint was fixed by a 4-hole hook plate. Conclusions: It is important to be aware of acromial fracture to not miss them and also for early management, so that early recovery and satisfactory results can be gained