Arthroscopic versus open distal clavicle resection: a biomechanical analysis on a cadaveric model

A fresh cadaver shoulder model was used to evaluate the difference in joint laxity between arthroscopic and open distal clavicle resection procedures. Twelve shoulders were mounted in a load frame that allowed compressive loading of the distal clavicle into the acromion. Specimens were loaded to 100 N (20 N/sec) while load and deformation data were recorded for three conditions: (1) intact, (2) 5-mm closed resection, and (3) 10-mm open resection. The displacement at the 100-N load and the stiffness of the load/displacement curves were compared for the intact, arthroscopic, and open procedures. Significant differences (ANOVA, P< or =.05) in displacement and stiffness were observed between the intact joint and both surgically resected joints. No significant differences were observed between the two surgically resected joints. The amount of bone removed arthroscopically was sufficient to prevent further bony contact in the axially loaded acromioclavicular joint.