The Mumford procedure in athletes. An objective analysis of function

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics

Background:

• The Mumford procedure, or distal clavicular resection, is used for degenerative changes after acromioclavicular joint dislocations.
• Objective muscle testing data following this procedure is lacking in English literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To objectively assess muscle function and return to sports levels after the Mumford procedure in athletes.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-three athletes (6 professional) underwent evaluation 3.7 years post-Mumford procedure.
• Methods included questionnaires, physical exams, radiographs, and Cybex isokinetic testing of shoulder muscles.
• Statistical analysis compared involved and sound limb performance at different speeds and planes.

Main Results:

• 16/23 athletes returned to their previous sports level; 5/6 professionals did.
• Most common complaint was reduced bench press strength.
• Involved limb showed more work in flexion/internal rotation at 300 deg/sec, but sound limb was stronger in extension/flexion at 60 deg/sec.

Conclusions:

• The Mumford procedure generally enables a successful return to sports for athletes.
• Objective testing reveals specific strength and work differences between limbs, highlighting potential areas for rehabilitation.
• Decreased bench press strength is a notable limitation for some athletes post-surgery.