In Neer type II (Robinson type 3B) fractures of the distal clavicle the medial fragment is detached from the coracoclavicular ligaments and displaced upwards, whereas the lateral fragment, which is usually small, maintains its position. Several fixation techniques have been suggested to treat this fracture. The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of patients with type II distal clavicle fractures treated with coracoclavicular suture fixation using three loops of Ethibond. This prospective study included 14 patients with Neer type II fractures treated with open reduction and coracoclavicular fixation. Ethibond sutures were passed under the coracoid and around the clavicle (UCAC loop) without making any drill holes in the proximal or distal fragments. There were 11 men and three women with a mean age of 34.57 years (29 to 41). Patients were followed for a mean of 24.64 months (14 to 31) and evaluated radiologically and clinically using the Constant score. Fracture union was obtained in 13 patients at a mean of 18.23 weeks (13 to 23) and the mean Constant score was 96.07 (91 to 100). One patient developed an asymptomatic fibrous nonunion at one year. This study suggests that open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal clavicle fractures using UCAC loops can provide rigid fixation and lead to bony union. This technique avoids using metal hardware, preserves the acromioclavicular joint and provides adequate stability with excellent results. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:983–7

Aim: Distal clavicle excision (DCE) is the treatment of choice for A–C joint arthritis.The overall complication rate for open, isolated DCE is higher than previously reported. Distal clavicle excision (DCE) is the treatment of choice for A–C joint arthritis. Isolated DCE., as an open procedure has been considered to be a safe procedure, and it is the gold standard for comparison for arthroscopic distal clavicle excision. This study attempts to define the incidence of complications after isolated, open DCE. Materials & Methods: This prospective, non-randomized study included 702 patients who underwent arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder. 580 patients were included in the control group. All patients underwent a thorough preoperative evaluation and final diagnosis was given after arthroscopic evaluation. There were 42 patients with isolated A–C joint arthritis, which underwent an open D.C.E. Mean follow up was 16.7 months. There were 30 men and 12 women with a mean age of 42,6 (± 12,5) years. The dominant arm was involved in 30 patients. 16 patients participated in sports while 9 of them were competitive athletes. 38 (90%) patients had symptomatic arthritis, 2(5%) cases were of osteolysis and separation arthritis each. Results: 22 (52%) of the 42 patients developed complications. There were 2 deep infections and 2 stitches abscesses. 4 (9.5%) patients developed a stiff shoulder and 1(2.4%) patient developed heterotopic ossification. 16 (38%) patients had tenderness in A–C joint for a period over 3 months while 6 (14%) patients had local tenderness at the last follow up. Painful scar was present in 2 (5%) patients over 3 months. Conclusions: The overall complication rate for open, isolated DCE is higher than previously reported. Patients should be advised of these possibilities and this study serves as a baseline for comparison for future study

Introduction and Aims: Acromioclavicular dislocations and fractures of the distal clavicle present a challenging problem for the treating surgeon. The use of a new specifically designed implant was investigated. A hooked-shaped plate with fixation to the distal clavicle and ‘hook’ placement under the posterior acromion was used. Method: The procedure was carried out on eight patients. In five patients the injury was a fractured distal clavicle. In three cases an acromioclavicular dislocation was treated. In all cases the time to returning to a functional capacity was analysed. The eventual functional result was indexed from the time of fracture union or complete stabilisation of the dislocations. Results: All five fractures went on to anatomical union. The three dislocations were all stabilised with no instability or subluxation. In two cases patients complained of impingement symptoms with decreased overhead functional capacity. In both cases the patients regained a full and pain-free range of movement after removal of the implant. Conclusion: This new implant provides an acceptable alternative in the management of distal clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular dislocations. The complication of impingement is encountered, but this appears to be treatable by removal of the implant after fracture union or joint stabilisation

Distal clavicle fractures have a significant non-union rate, and are often managed operatively. Many of the fixation devices used have a high complication rate or require removal. An arthroscopic technique using the Tightrope device (Arthrex) has been used in our institution. We aimed to describe our initial results. Eighteen cases were identified retrospectively, and the notes and radiographs reviewed. Twelve patients were male, six female, with mean age 33 years. All fractures were displaced, lateral to the coraco-clavicular ligament complex: six showed marked comminution. Mean follow-up was thirteen weeks. Fifteen fractures united, with a mean radiological time to union of 8 weeks (range 6-13 weeks). There were three surgical complications. In one, the clavicular button was not seated correctly on bone, and early failure required revision surgery. In another, there was inadequate reduction, radiographic non-union at five months and subsequent device failure. In the last, there was radiographic non-union, but the patient was asymptomatic. The arthroscopic tightrope device provides minimally invasive stabilisation and reliable union. The complications seen were related to incorrect technique, and anticipate the complication rate to diminish as the technique is developed. We recommend the use of this technique for the stabilisation of distal clavicle fractures

Disruption of the coraco-clavicular ligaments may be associated with either dislocation of the AC joint or fracture of the distal clavicle. If sufficient displacement occurs, functional disability results. Traditional techniques have required a bra-strap incision and often require late removal of the metalwork. The Tightrope syndesmosis repair system was adapted to be used arthroscopically to reduce and hold the clavicle enabling healing of the ligaments and any associated fracture using a minimally invasive technique but ensuring accurate reduction and secure stabilisation. Between December 2004 and November 2006, 21 patients with acute injuries to the corac-clavicular ligaments in our institution were treated using this system. As the system was in evolution the majority were treated arthroscopically and a few using an “open” technique. All had either the acromio-clavicular joint reduced or a distal clavicle fracture reduced and stabilised using the Tightrope Syndesmosis Repair system. The system had been modified from that commercially available for use in the ankle with the consent of the manufacturer (Arthrex, Naples, Fla). All patients were evaluated at a minimum of 6 months (range 6–32 months) post operatively using the DASH, ASES and Constant scores The mean ASES score was 95, the mean Constant score was 94, and the mean DASH score was 2.5. There were no complications and two patient required removal of the clavicle endobutton. The authors conclude that this new technique is a safe, simple, cosmetically acceptable and reproducible method of reducing and stabilising the distal clavicle allowing for healing of either the coraco-clavicular ligaments or the distal clavicle

Purpose of Study Disruption of the coraco-clavicular ligaments may be associated with either dislocation of the Acromioclavicular joint or fracture of the distal clavicle. If sufficient displacement occurs functional disability results. Traditional techniques have required a bra-strap incision and often require late removal of the metalwork. The Tightrope syndesmosis repair system was adapted to be used arthroscopically to reduce and hold the clavicle enabling healing of the ligaments and any associated fracture using a minimally invasive technique but ensuring accurate reduction and secure stabilisation. Between December 2004 and September 2005 20 patients with injuries to the coraco-clavicular ligaments were treated using this system. As the system was in evolution a the majority were treated arthroscopically and a few using an “open” technique. All had either the acromio-clavicular joint reduced or a distal clavicle fracture reduced and stabilised using the Tightrope Syndesmosis Repair system. The system had been modified from that commercially available for use in the ankle with the consent of the manufacturer (Arthrex, Naples, Fla). Results All patients were evaluated at a minimum of 6 months post operatively using the DASH, ASES and Constant scores The mean ASES score was 94, the mean Constant score was 90, the mean DASH score was 5 One patient had failure of the metalwork due to malposition, this was revised successfully using the Tightrope and one had a transient adhesive capsulitis. There were no other complications and no patient required removal of the metalwork. Conclusions The authors conclude that this new technique is a safe, simple, cosmetically acceptable and reproducible method of reducing and stabilising the distal clavicle allowing for healing of either the coraco-clavicular ligaments or the distal clavicle

Introduction Unstable distal clavicle fractures have a high rate of non and delayed union, with many authors recommending surgical fixation. There are several techniques described in the literature reporting good results. We report the outcome of eighteen patients undergoing temporary fixation with a coracoclavicular screw, reinforced with Mersilene tape and Ethibond sutures. Methods Eighteen patients were treated by a single surgeon between October 1999 and March 2003. All patients were male with an average age of 35 years. The indication for surgery was an unstable Type II fracture of the distal third clavicle. Fixation was achieved with a 6.5 mm cancellous screw through the clavicle into the coracoid process, reinforced by Mersilene tape and number 5 Ethibond sutures around the coracoid process. The arm was immobilized for two to four weeks after surgery. Each patient had the screw removed at about 11 weeks from surgery. Results Eighteen patients achieved osseous union with painless range of motion. Union time ranged between six to 11 weeks. One patient developed a superficial skin infection, which settled with oral antibiotics, the scar required revision at time of screw removal. Two patients had screw breakage after union, which did not affect their outcome. There was no cases of screw penetration. Conclusions This method of screw fixation is a relatively safe and easy technique of open reduction and internal fixation of the unstable distal third of clavicle. The outcome of this procedure is predictable with minimal complications

Osteolysis has been reported following ACJ reconstruction with a synthetic graft. We present the first study into its prevalence and pattern, and its effect on patient outcome. Patients who underwent treatment of an unstable ACJ injury using the Surgilig/LockDown implant were identified via our database. Patients were invited to attend a dedicated outpatient clinic for clinical examination, radiographic evaluation, and completion of outcome scoring. Patients who were unable to attend were contacted by telephone. 49 patients were identified. We assessed 21 clinically at a mean of 7 years post-procedure (range 3–11 years). All had radiographic evidence of distal clavicle and coracoid osteolysis. We did not observe progression of osteolysis from the final post-operative radiographs. A further 13 were contacted by phone. The mean Oxford Shoulder Score was 43 (range 31–48) and mean DASH score was 8.5 (range 3–71). The average Patient Global Impression of Change score was 6 (range 2–7). Six patients underwent removal of a prominent screw at a mean of 2 years after surgery; the pattern of osteolysis was no different in this group. All patients had comparable abduction, forward flexion and internal rotation to their uninjured shoulder. We did not observe any relationship between patient demographics, position of implant or etiology and the pattern of osteolysis. Osteolysis of the distal clavicle and/or coracoid is always seen following synthetic reconstruction of the ACJ using this implant, but is non-progressive. Range of shoulder movement is largely unaffected and patient outcomes remain high

Abstract. Background. Distal third clavicle (DTC) fractures represent 2.6 to 4% of all adult fractures but there is no consensus as to the surgical management of these injuries. The primary outcomes of this study were to determine the frequency of DTC fractures and their management. Secondary outcomes included complications, further procedures, fracture union and the breakdown of treatment by modified Neer classification. Methods. A multicentre cohort study was conducted between 1. st. January 2019–31. st. December 2019. All patients, over 18 years old, with an isolated DTC fracture were included. Demographic variables, management, mechanism of injury, modified Neer classification and fracture union were recorded. Simple statistical analysis was performed as a total dataset and as a breakdown of major trauma centres (MTCs) vs trauma units (TUs). Results. 859 patients from 18 different NHS trusts (15 TUs and 3 MTCs) were included. The mean age was 57 years (18 to 99). 87% were treated conservatively and 54% were Neer type 1 fractures. With regards to operative management, 89% of patients who underwent an operation were under the age of 60. 56% of patients had evidence of union at most recent follow-up. Conclusions. This is the first and largest epidemiological review of DTC fractures in the UK. Results show that younger patients, suffering higher mechanism of injury, are more likely to undergo surgery. Furthermore, rates of union are low but further research is needed to determine the functional outcomes of these patients. There is scope for a pragmatic RCT for the treatment of DTC

This prospective evaluation of early experience using this technique. Patients with fracture of the distal clavicle were surgically treated with clavicular hook plate fixation. They were reviewed clinically and radiographically by one observer. 12 patients, 7 male, 5 female, were treated in our unit. Mean age (34.7) range 25–60 years. 10 were the results of low velocity injury. 9 were treated within one week of injury. 3 were treated at 13, 14 and 16 weeks post injury. Mean hospital stay 2.7 range 2–5 days. All patients healed, 10 within 12 weeks. All resumed full activity by 24 weeks. 2 had superficial wound infection, treated successfully with oral antibiotics without implant removal. One had a seroma, which resolved spontaneously. One patient developed limitation of movement at 20 weeks ultrasound confirmed impingement. Plate was removed and patient regained full range of movement after six weeks. No implant fracture or loosening was observed. Based on experience to date the clavicular hook plate is a safe and reliable method of fixation. Relatively simple implant with good results. Allows early mobilisation and has little complication

Aim: To review the experience of a tertiary referral shoulder practice in managing a group of patients each of whom presented with disabling pain and loss of function following excision of the distal end of the clavicle. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed of eight male patients (average age 46) who underwent this procedure between August 1998 and December 1999. All patients were assessed using a standard protocol pre and post-operatively. The surgical technique involved an arthrodesis at the acromio-clavicular joint and coraco-clavicular space using autogenous iliac crest bone graft and fixation with both tension band wires and a cancellous screw. Results: The minimum follow-up was six months and clinical assessments demonstrated painful instability of the residual clavicle predominantly in the antero-posterior plane presumably because of disruption of the posterior acromio-clavicular joint capsule which is the major restraint to posterior translation of the clavicle. The patients had undergone on average 3.1 operations and had had symptoms for an average of 79 months before the fusion. The fusion rate was 75% (six out of eight). Pain, measured using a Visual Analogue Scale (0 to 10), was reduced from 8.5 pre-operatively to 3.1 post-operatively. The patient’s perception of instability reduced from an average of 9.0 to an average of 1.0. The range of motion increased in five patients, decreased in two and remained the same in one. All of the patients would have the operation again and seven out of eight were very satisfied. The complications included the two non-unions, mild sterno-clavicular pain in two cases and a need to remove K-wires in seven instances. Conclusions: Acromio-clavicular and coraco-clavicular fusions are worthwhile salvage techniques in the difficult situation of painful instability of the distal clavicle after multiple previous procedures. This complication can be avoided primarily by preservation of the posterior acromio-clavicular joint capsule

Aims. Distal third clavicle (DTC) fractures are increasing in incidence. Due to their instability and nonunion risk, they prove difficult to treat. Several different operative options for DTC fixation are reported but current evidence suggests variability in operative fixation. Given the lack of consensus, our objective was to determine the current epidemiological trends in DTC as well as their management within the UK. Methods. A multicentre retrospective cohort collaborative study was conducted. All patients over the age of 18 with an isolated DTC fracture in 2019 were included. Demographic variables were recorded: age; sex; side of injury; mechanism of injury; modified Neer classification grading; operative technique; fracture union; complications; and subsequent procedures. Baseline characteristics were described for demographic variables. Categorical variables were expressed as frequencies and percentages. Results. A total of 859 patients from 18 different NHS trusts (15 trauma units and three major trauma centres) were included. The mean age was 57 years (18 to 99). Overall, 56% of patients (n = 481) were male. The most common mechanisms of injury were simple fall (57%; n = 487) and high-energy fall (29%; n = 248); 87% (n = 748) were treated conservatively and 54% (n = 463) were Neer type I fractures. Overall, 32% of fractures (n = 275) were type II (22% type IIa (n = 192); 10% type IIb (n = 83)). With regards to operative management, 89% of patients (n = 748) who underwent an operation were under the age of 60. The main fixation methods were: hook plate (n = 47); locking plate (n = 34); tightrope (n = 5); and locking plate and tight rope (n = 7). Conclusion. Our study is the largest epidemiological review of DTC fractures in the UK. It is also the first to review the practice of DTC fixation. Most fractures are being treated nonoperatively. However, younger patients, suffering a higher-energy mechanism of injury, are more likely to undergo surgery. Hook plates are the predominantly used fixation method followed by locking plate. The literature is sparse on the best method of fixation for optimal outcomes for these patients. To answer this, a pragmatic RCT to determine optimal fixation method is required. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(12):953–959

Non-operative treatment of lateral clavicle fractures presents a difficult problem. A high incidence of non-union, residual pain and shoulder girdle instability has been reported. A variety of fixation techniques have been described but the complication rates of these procedures can be high. This retrospective review describes the use of distal radius locking plates for fixation of lateral unstable clavicle fractures.

From January 2006 until December 2007 23 patients (17 males, 5 females; mean age 31 yrs (12–70) presented to our service. 2 patients sustained type 1, 16 patients type 2, 2 patients type 4 and 3 patients type 5 fractures (Neer classification). Patients were reviewed clinically, radiographically and with Constant score assessment.

Union was acchieved at a mean follow up of 7.2 weeks. The mean Constant score at 6 months was 84, the mean DASH score 27.7. The following complications were seen during the follow-up period: 1 superficial infection settling with oral antibiotics and 1 non-union in a type 5 fracture requiring bone grafting.

Clavicle fractures of the lateral aspect are controversial. The mechanism of injury often results in ruptures of the adjacent coracoclavicular ligaments and create instability and increased motion between the proximal and distal fragment. The result of this series of cases are encouraging and we recommend the use of distal radius locking plates to treat unstable lateral clavicle fractures. However a larger study is needed to further evaluate mid- and long-term shoulder function.

Five consecutive unstable fractures of the distal third of the clavicle were treated by indirect open reduction and internal fixation using a temporary Bosworth-type screw. Coracoclavicular fixation provided and maintained reduction of the fracture. Healing occurred uneventfully within nine weeks in all cases. The screw was removed under local anaesthesia after healing of the fracture and there were no surgical complications. Shoulder function was restored to the pre-injury level. Temporary coracoclavicular screw fixation appears to be a valuable alternative for the treatment of type II fractures of the distal third of the clavicle.

Adequate visual clarity is paramount to performing arthroscopic shoulder surgery safely, efficiently, and effectively. The addition of epinephrine in irrigation fluid, and the intravenous or local administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) have independently been reported to decrease bleeding thereby improving the surgeon's visualization during arthroscopic shoulder procedures. No study has compared the effect of systemic administered TXA, epinephrine added in the irrigation fluid or the combination of both TXA and epinephrine on visual clarity during shoulder arthroscopy with a placebo group. The purpose of this study is to determine if intravenous TXA is a safe alternative to epinephrine delivered by a pressure-controlled pump in improving arthroscopic shoulder visualization during arthroscopic procedures and whether using both TXA and epinephrine together has an additive effect in improving visualization. The design of the study was a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial with four 1:1:1:1 parallel groups conducted at one center. Patients aged ≥18 years undergoing arthroscopic shoulder procedures including rotator cuff repair, arthroscopic biceps tenotomy/tenodesis, distal clavicle excision, subacromial decompression and labral repair by five fellowship-trained upper extremity surgeons were randomized into one of four arms: Pressure pump-controlled regular saline irrigation fluid (control), epinephrine (1ml of 1:1000) mixed in irrigation fluid (EPI), 1g intravenous TXA (TXA), and epinephrine and TXA (EPI/TXA). Visualization was rated on a 4-point Likert scale every 15 minutes with 0 indicating ‘poor’ quality and 3 indicating ‘excellent’ quality. The primary outcome measure was the unweighted mean of these ratings. Secondary outcomes included mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), surgery duration, surgery complexity, and adverse events within the first postoperative week. One hundred and twenty-eight participants with a mean age (± SD) of 56 (± 11) years were randomized. Mean visualization quality for the control, TXA, EPI, and EPI/TXA groups were 2.1 (±0.40), 2.1 (±0.52), 2.6 (±0.37), 2.6 (±0.35), respectively. In a regression model with visual quality as the dependent variable, the presence/absence of EPI was the most significant predictor of visualization quality (R=0.525; p < 0 .001). TXA presence/absence had no effect, and there was no interaction between TXA and EPI. The addition of MAP and surgery duration strengthened the model (R=0.529; p < 0 .001). Increased MAP and surgery duration were both associated with decreased visualization quality. When surgery duration was controlled, surgery complexity was not a significant predictor of visualization quality. No adverse events were recorded in any of the groups. Intravenous administration of TXA is not an effective alternative to epinephrine in the irrigation fluid to improve visualization during routine arthroscopic shoulder surgeries although its application is safe. There is no additional improvement in visualization when TXA is used in combination with epinephrine beyond the effect of epinephrine alone

Adequate visual clarity is paramount to performing arthroscopic shoulder surgery safely, efficiently, and effectively. The addition of epinephrine in irrigation fluid, and the intravenous or local administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) have independently been reported to decrease bleeding thereby improving the surgeon's visualization during arthroscopic shoulder procedures. No study has compared the effect of systemic administered TXA, epinephrine added in the irrigation fluid or the combination of both TXA and epinephrine on visual clarity during shoulder arthroscopy with a placebo group. The purpose of this study is to determine if intravenous TXA is a safe alternative to epinephrine delivered by a pressure-controlled pump in improving arthroscopic shoulder visualization during arthroscopic procedures and whether using both TXA and epinephrine together has an additive effect in improving visualization. The design of the study was a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial with four 1:1:1:1 parallel groups conducted at one center. Patients aged ≥18 years undergoing arthroscopic shoulder procedures including rotator cuff repair, arthroscopic biceps tenotomy/tenodesis, distal clavicle excision, subacromial decompression and labral repair by five fellowship-trained upper extremity surgeons were randomized into one of four arms: Pressure pump-controlled regular saline irrigation fluid (control), epinephrine (1ml of 1:1000) mixed in irrigation fluid (EPI), 1g intravenous TXA (TXA), and epinephrine and TXA (EPI/TXA). Visualization was rated on a 4-point Likert scale every 15 minutes with 0 indicating ‘poor’ quality and 3 indicating ‘excellent’ quality. The primary outcome measure was the unweighted mean of these ratings. Secondary outcomes included mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), surgery duration, surgery complexity, and adverse events within the first postoperative week. One hundred and twenty-eight participants with a mean age (± SD) of 56 (± 11) years were randomized. Mean visualization quality for the control, TXA, EPI, and EPI/TXA groups were 2.1 (±0.40), 2.1 (±0.52), 2.6 (±0.37), 2.6 (±0.35), respectively. In a regression model with visual quality as the dependent variable, the presence/absence of EPI was the most significant predictor of visualization quality (R=0.525; p < 0 .001). TXA presence/absence had no effect, and there was no interaction between TXA and EPI. The addition of MAP and surgery duration strengthened the model (R=0.529; p < 0 .001). Increased MAP and surgery duration were both associated with decreased visualization quality. When surgery duration was controlled, surgery complexity was not a significant predictor of visualization quality. No adverse events were recorded in any of the groups. Intravenous administration of TXA is not an effective alternative to epinephrine in the irrigation fluid to improve visualization during routine arthroscopic shoulder surgeries although its application is safe. There is no additional improvement in visualization when TXA is used in combination with epinephrine beyond the effect of epinephrine alone

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations and fractures of the distal clavicle present challenging problems for the treating surgeon. We treated eight patients using a hook-shaped plate fixed to the distal clavicle and ‘hooked’ under the posterior acromion. In five patients the injury was a fractured distal clavicle and in three an AC joint dislocation. We analysed the time taken to achieve a functional capacity. The eventual functional result was indexed from the time of fracture union or complete stabilisation of the dislocations. All five fractures went on to anatomical union. The three dislocations were all stabilised with no instability or sub-luxation. Two patients complained of impingement symptoms and decreased overhead functional capacity. After the implant was removed, both patients regained a full range of pain-free movement. This is a small study with limited follow-up. However, the results suggest that this new implant provides an acceptable alternative in the management of distal clavicle fractures and AC joint dislocations. The complication of impingement can be treated by removal of the implant after union or stabilisation has been achieved

The aim of our study was to assess the use of the Clavicular Hook Plate in treating acromio–clavicular joint dislocations and fractures of the distal clavicle. The prospective study was carried out at two hospitals- a teaching hospital and a district general hospital. Between 2001 and 2004 a total of 37 patients with AC joint injuries and distal clavicle fractures were treated surgically with this device. Four of the patients had sustained a Neers Type 2 fracture of the distal clavicle, while 33 patients had acromio-clavicular joint dislocation (Rockwood Type 3 or higher). Mean age of the study group was 35.2 years. Post operatively, shoulder pendulum exercises were commenced on the second day and all patients discharged within 48 hours. During the first few weeks, we restricted shoulder abduction to 90 degrees. At the first postoperative follow up appointment at 2 weeks, average shoulder abduction was 30 degrees and forward elevation −40 degrees. This improved at 6 weeks to 85 degrees and 105 degrees respectively. The plates were removed at an average time interval of 11 weeks for the ACJ dislocations (range 8–12 weeks) and 15 weeks for the clavicle fractures (range 12–16 weeks). At three months after plate removal, we evaluated patients to measure the Visual Analogue Score(VAS) and Constant Score. The mean VAS was 1.4 (range 0–6) and the mean Constant score was 92 (range 72 to 98). Wound healing problems occurred in two patients, while two had a stress riser clavicle fracture. These had to be subsequently fixed with a Dynamic Compression Plate. One patient developed a superficial wound infection. Seven patients had problems due to impingement between the hook and the under surface of the acromion. A 45 year old female patient developed ACJ instability after plate removal. Radiographs revealed widening of the AC joint and some osteophyte formation. She went on to develop frozen shoulder which was treated with intensive physiotherapy. The AO hook plate represents an improvement over previous implants in treating injuries around the AC Joint. However, the need for a second operation to remove the plate remains a significant problem. Complications resulting from impingement were common in our patients and represent a major drawback of this implant

Introduction We have evaluated the early outcome of arthroscopic excision of the distal clavicle (Mumford procedure) for acromioclavicular joint pathology. Method Forty-one patients with acromioclavicular joint pathology underwent arthroscopic distal clavicle resections between 2002 and 2004. Preoperatively, all patients had acromioclavicular joint tenderness, 90% had a positive horizontal adduction test and 62% had a positive O’Brien’s AC compression test. All provocative signs were abolished on re-examination after acromio-clavicular joint injection. Surgery was indicated with failure of conservative management. Surgery was performed through a subacromial approach to the acromio-clavicular joint, using a Acromionizer (Smith-Nephew Dyonics, Andover, MA) burr through the anterosuperior portal. A supplementary Neviaser portal was used in 9 cases. Patients were clinically assessed at average of 18 months post surgery (range; 9–36). Functional rating was obtained with the Constant Score, WORC score and the Oxford Score. Results. Thirty-five patients (85%) reported none or minimal pain. 81% were negative for provocative AC signs. Internal rotation increased by average of 5 vertebrae levels. The Constant, the WORC and Oxford Scores were improved by 23 points, 674 points and 16 points respectively (p< 0.05). 71% reported good or excellent function by the 3. rd. post-operative month. Conclusion The arthroscopic Mumford procedure effectively treats acromioclavicular joint pathology. The procedure has low associated morbidity and high patient satisfaction

Introduction: Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are common in both the sporting and working populations. Most injuries are grade I in severity and settle with an appropriate non-operative treatment program. Arthroscopic soft tissue debridement of the AC Joint without excising the distal clavicle, is a bone sparing procedure that, to our knowledge, has never been reported in the literature. This paper is a retrospective review of patients with chronic recalcitrant AC joint injuries, who underwent arthroscopic soft tissue debridement of the AC joint. Materials and Methods: Fourteen patients underwent arthroscopic AC joint soft tissue debridement. All patients had failed a non-operative treatment program including physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory tablets and corticosteroid injections. All patients had been symptomatic for a minimum of four months prior to surgery. The surgery involves a glenohumeral joint arthroscopy, subacromial bursoscopy and AC joint arthroscopy. Excision of the torn AC joint meniscus, AC joint synovectomy and soft tissue clearance were performed in all cases. Surgery was performed as a day-only procedure. Results: Ten out of fourteen patients obtained good pain relief and a corresponding increase in function. One patient was lost to follow-up. One patient subsequently underwent an open AC joint reconstruction for chronic instability. Five patients had previously undiagnosed SLAP tears. Conclusion. Arthroscopic soft tissue debridement for recalcitrant AC joint injuries gave good results in 77% of cases. Arthroscopy of the glenohumeral joint in patients with presumed isolated AC joint disease is important as there is a significant proportion of patients who have associated significant superior labral tears. Soft tissue arthroscopic AC joint debridement allows quick post-operative rehabilitation, an early return to sport and work and avoids having to excise bone from the distal clavicle. Arthroscopic AC joint debridement is contraindicated in patients who have grade II or grade III AC joint instability