Functional and Radiographic Outcomes After Allograft Anatomic Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction

To analyze the functional and radiographic outcomes of anatomic coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction (ACCR) using allograft tendon without interference screw fixation.

Retrospective nonrandomized study.

Level I trauma center (University Hospital).

Seventeen patients (mean age of 44 years) with Rockwood III through V acromioclavicular joint disruptions. Twelve of 17 patients had a primary reconstruction, including 4 patients sustaining their injuries as part of a polytrauma incident. Five of 17 patients were revisions of a previously failed acromioclavicular reconstruction procedure.

Open ACCR using hamstring allograft with high-strength suture augmentation and knotted graft fixation without interference screws.

Clinical and patient reported outcome measures including Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, and visual analog scale scores for pain and radiographic outcomes.

The average final postoperative Simple Shoulder Test and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores were 10.8 and 80.5, respectively. The average final postoperative visual analog scale pain was 1.8. All patients demonstrated clavicle tunnel widening on final postoperative radiographs compared with immediate postoperative radiographs. The overall complication rate was 36%, with no clavicle or coracoid fractures.

Open ACCR using hamstring allograft tendon secured with a square knot and high-strength suture augmentation yields equivalent outcomes to those repairs requiring an additional interference screw. Clavicle tunnel widening predictably occurs, but the clinical significance is undetermined. It appears therefore that an interference screw is not needed. Larger comparison studies are needed.

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.