Type 4 Acromioclavicular Joint Separation Reconstruction With Suspensory Fixation, Allograft, and Suture...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Arthroscopy

Background:

• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations are common shoulder injuries, particularly in athletes.
• High-grade AC joint injuries (Type 4) often require surgical intervention for optimal outcomes.
• Conservative treatment may fail for severe AC joint separations, necessitating surgical repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate an arthroscopic-assisted surgical technique for Type 4 AC joint separation.
• To assess the efficacy of combined suspensory fixation, allograft ligament reconstruction, and suture augmentation.
• To report the functional recovery of a young athlete following this surgical procedure.

Main Methods:

• The procedure involved arthroscopic evaluation followed by open reduction and fixation of the distal clavicle.
• Reconstruction utilized a semitendinosus allograft with suspensory fixation and suture augmentation.
• The technique focused on anatomic positioning and secure fixation of the AC joint.

Main Results:

• The patient achieved pain-free daily living and full range of motion within 5 months.
• Returning strength allowed for a return to sports-specific activities.
• The surgical reconstruction successfully restored shoulder function.

Conclusions:

• Arthroscopic-assisted reconstruction is an effective treatment for Type 4 AC joint separations.
• The combined technique of suspensory fixation and allograft reconstruction yields good clinical outcomes.
• This approach facilitates a return to painless, functional use of the affected extremity.