Coracoacromial ligament section under ultrasonographic control: a cadaveric study on 20 cases

The coracoacromial ligament is a complex anatomical structure involved in the development of subacromial impingement; treatment is founded on sectioning the ligament, with or without associated arthroscopic acromioplasty and debridement.

Complete coracoacromial ligament section can be performed under ultrasound, without lesion to surrounding structures.

The coracoacromial ligament was sectioned on the coracoid side, under ultrasound navigation, in 10 cadavers donated to science: i.e. 20 shoulders. After ultrasound location of the shoulder structures, sectioning was performed with a skin incision at the level of the deltopectoral sulcus. Secondary surgical control checked conservation of the acromial branch of the thoracoacromial artery, and the quality of the procedure.

Mean surgery duration was 18.5 minutes (±5 min). Seventeen sections were complete (85%). Artery location was hampered by the impossibility of using Doppler on these cadavers, yet even so there were only 2 vascular lesions. There were no accidental rotator cuff or cartilaginous lesions.

This relatively non-invasive technique is quick and less heavy than open surgery, opening up new treatment perspectives. It could be indicated in coracoid and subacromial impingement before opting for surgery, or as a complement to surgery. It does, however, involve a learning curve and requires solid ultrasound skills.