The CARE technique: arthroscopic CoracoAcromial ligament RE-attachment

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Shoulder biomechanics

Background:

• Standard acromioplasty often involves detaching inferior fibers of the coracoacromial ligament.
• This detachment can lead to deltoid muscle weakening and increased risk of anterior-superior glenohumeral instability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a technique for re-attaching the inferior fibers of the coracoacromial ligament during acromioplasty.
• To restore the mechanical continuity of the coracohumeral arc and mitigate potential complications.

Main Methods:

• The described technique involves the re-attachment of the inferior fibers of the coracoacromial ligament to its intact superior portion.
• This procedure aims to repair the structural damage caused by standard acromioplasty.

Main Results:

• Successful re-attachment re-establishes the mechanical continuity of the coracohumeral arc.
• This technique addresses the secondary weakening of the deltoid muscle and the risk of glenohumeral migration.

Conclusions:

• The presented technique offers a solution to the inherent drawbacks of standard acromioplasty.
• Restoring the coracoacromial ligament's integrity can improve shoulder stability and deltoid function post-surgery.