Functional and radiological outcome after arthroscopic and open acromioclavicular stabilization using a double-button...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Traumatology

Background:

• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations are common shoulder injuries.
• Surgical stabilization is often required for severe AC joint dislocations (e.g., Grade 3 and 4).
• Double-button coracoclavicular fixation is a technique used for AC joint stabilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate functional and radiological outcomes of open and arthroscopic AC joint stabilization.
• To assess the efficacy of a double-button fixation system in treating AC joint dislocations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 16 patients surgically treated for AC joint dislocation.
• Patients underwent either open (7) or arthroscopic (9) double-button coracoclavicular fixation.
• Follow-up averaged 17 months, with functional assessment using DASH, VAS, and SSV scores.

Main Results:

• Excellent functional outcomes observed: mean DASH score 2.29, mean VAS score 0.82, mean SSV 90.5%.
• Radiological success: 10 patients achieved complete reduction; 5 had stable residual subluxation.
• One case of redislocation required revision surgery; overall good stability achieved.

Conclusions:

• Double-button coracoclavicular fixation provides good functional results and allows return to work/recreation for AC joint dislocations.
• Arthroscopic fixation without CA ligament transfer is recommended for acute AC joint injuries within 2 weeks.
• Both open and arthroscopic techniques demonstrate effectiveness in stabilizing the AC joint.