Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 15, 2025
Anterior Capsular Reconstruction with Human Dermal Allograft for Irreparable Subscapularis Tears
Published on: May 9, 2025
Early and delayed acromioclavicular joint reconstruction provide equivalent outcomes
Alexandre Lädermann1, Patrick J Denard2, Philippe Collin3
1Division of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, La Tour Hospital, Meyrin, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Division of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
Early and delayed surgery for high-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations yield similar outcomes when using combined coracoclavicular (CC) and AC joint reconstruction. This suggests rapid surgical intervention may not be essential for optimal results in AC joint injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Traumatology
Background:
- High-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations can impact shoulder function.
- Previous studies suggest early reconstruction improves outcomes, but often used outdated techniques.
- Limited research exists on combined coracoclavicular (CC) and AC joint ligament reconstruction timing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare functional outcomes of early versus delayed surgical intervention for AC joint dislocations.
- To evaluate the efficacy of combined CC and AC ligament reconstruction in both early and delayed settings.
- To determine if surgical timing impacts patient outcomes for AC joint injuries.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective comparative study of 53 patients with AC joint dislocations.
- All patients underwent open stabilization with combined CC and AC joint reconstruction.
- Outcomes assessed at minimum 12-month follow-up using ACJI, Taft, SSV, VAS pain, and satisfaction scores.
Main Results:
- No significant differences observed in ACJI scores (P=.267), Taft scores (P=.084), VAS pain (P=.541), SSV (P=.427), or satisfaction (P=.491) between early and delayed groups.
- Multivariable analyses found no association between surgical timing and ACJI or Taft scores.
- The study included 47 men and 6 women, with a mean age of 40.1 years.
Conclusions:
- Early and delayed surgical intervention for high-grade AC joint dislocations result in equivalent clinical outcomes with combined CC and AC joint fixation.
- Prompt surgical intervention may not be necessary, as delayed surgery can still provide significant patient benefit.
- Current surgical techniques for AC joint dislocations offer comparable results regardless of intervention timing.
