Optimal Management of Acromioclavicular Dislocation: Current Perspectives

Abstract

Injuries to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint are common and mostly involve younger, male individuals. Whereas the majority of AC joint dislocations can be treated nonoperatively with a trial of immobilization, pain medication, cryotherapy, and physiotherapy, there are patients that do not respond well to conservative management and may require surgical treatment. Identifying and treating these patients according to the type and chronicity of AC joint dislocation is paramount. To date, a myriad of surgical techniques have been proposed to address unstable AC joint dislocations and are indicative of the uncertainty that exists in optimal management of these injuries. Historically research has focused on the restoration of the coracoclavicular ligament complex. However, recently the importance of the acromioclavicular capsule and ligaments has been emphasized. This review aims to provide the reader with an overview of current treatment strategies and research, as well as future perspectives.

Anatomy

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is a diarthrodial joint formed by the distal clavicle and scapula (acromion). Opposing articulating surfaces are covered in hyaline cartilage and a fibrocartilaginous disk is present intraarticularly that undergoes rapid degeneration between the 2nd and 4th decades of life¹ and varies in size, shape and completeness.² The AC joint serves as the link between the shoulder girdle and axial skeleton and facilitates both gliding and rotational motion. More specifically, it serves as a coordinating link between the scapulothoracic (ST), glenohumeral (GH), and sternoclavicular (SC) joints and allows for physiological movement.³ Stabilization of the AC joint is achieved via dynamic and static contributions. Important anatomic structures that provide static stabilization to the joint include the joint capsule, acromioclavicular (AC) and coracoclavicular (CC) ligament complex.

The AC joint capsule is relatively thin, but contributes directly to AC joint stability, along with a capsular thickening known as the AC ligament (Figure 1). The AC ligament complex spans between the acromion and the distal clavicle and has been described by multiple authors as having anterior, posterior, superior, and inferior components;^4,5 however, numerous cadaveric studies have failed to identify the inferior ligament up to 50% of the time.^6–8 Nakazawa et al⁹ divided the ligament into 2 parts: superoposterior (SP) and anteroinferior (AI). Despite consistent presence of the SP bundle, the AI bundle varied in thickness and location, spanning the inferior part of the joint in only 42% of the investigated shoulders. Biomechanically, the AC ligament is primarily responsible for resisting anterior-posterior AC joint translation,^10–13 while providing additional restraint against posterior axial rotation of the clavicle.¹² In comparison to the CC ligament complex, the AC ligament complex usually fails first, signifying it may be responsible for resisting relatively small moments of displacement while the CC ligament resists larger displacement moments.¹⁴

Figure 1.

Superior view of a cadaveric left shoulder specimen showing the acromioclavicular capsule.

The coracoclavicular ligament complex is made out of two components: the conoid and trapezoid ligaments, which are positioned anteromedial and posterolateral, respectively, and span between the inferior, distal clavicle and the base of the coracoid process. Together these ligaments provide superoinferior static AC joint stabilization, with the trapezoid being the stronger ligament.¹⁵ Additionally, they also provide rotational stability and stability with protraction and retraction of the scapula. The conoid ligament originates on the superomedial coracoid base and courses superolateral to insert broadly on the clavicular conoid tubercle. Similarly, the trapezoid originates on the superomedial surface of the coracoid, anterior to the conoid, and travels superolateral to insert narrowly on the clavicular trapezoid line, anterior to the conoid tubercle.¹⁶ The diverging course and distinct attachments of both ligaments argues individual function that must be considered during surgical reconstruction. Rios et al determined that reliable CC ligament clavicular insertions could be calculated as percentages of total clavicular length—the trapezoid and conoid attaching 17% and 31% of the total clavicular length from the distal end, respectively. Chahla et al¹⁶ quantitatively found that the CC ligament clavicular insertion is on average 15.7 mm from the lateral joint line and the footprint spans an average length of 25.6 mm on the clavicle. Additionally, mean distances from the coracoid apex to the center of the trapezoid and conoid ligaments are 27.0 ± 3.3 mm and 33.9 ± 3.3 mm, respectively.

Epidemiology

AC injuries are common with as many as 9% of all shoulder girdle injuries involving the AC joint.¹⁷ The estimated incidence of AC joint injuries is 1.8 per 1000 per year, with the majority of injuries occurring between ages 20 to 40 and men being 8.5 times more likely to suffer injury compared to women. The cause for disparity is most likely due to life-style differences and men being more apt to participate in high-risk activity.¹⁸ Additionally, AC joint injuries are more common in the sports-participating population, particularly during contact sports like hockey, wrestling, and rugby, among others.¹⁷ Notably, a recent study evaluating injuries in American professional football players found that almost 30% of all National Football League (NFL) shoulder injuries were AC joint-related.¹⁹

The mechanism of AC joint injury can occur as a result of either direct or indirect trauma, although direct blows to the lateral shoulder are the most common precipitating event. The characteristic strength of the SC joint transmits contact forces to the AC joint, distal clavicle, and supporting ligaments, causing disruption.³ Indirect injury is generally position-related and can occur after a fall onto the ipsilateral extremity in either an adducted or outstretched position, which makes AC and CC ligaments more vulnerable to injury.²⁰

Classification

Tossy et al²¹ was among the first to propose a classification system for AC joint injuries in 1963. Since then, numerous classifying schemes have been suggested by various authors. In 1984, Rockwood²² expanded on the original system to develop a six-part classification that is the most adopted and widely used classifying method to date (Table 1).

Table 1.

Acromioclavicular Injuries: Rockwood Classification

Type	AC Ligaments	CC Ligaments	Radiographic Displacement
I	Sprained/Partially Torn	Intact	None
II	Ruptured	Sprained/Partially torn	Minimal
III	Ruptured	Ruptured	Increased CC distance 100%
IV	Ruptured	Ruptured	Clavicular posterior displacement through trapezius
V	Ruptured	Ruptured	Increased CC distance 100–300%
VI	Ruptured	Ruptured	Clavicular inferior displacement: subacromial or subcoracoid

Abbreviations: AC, acromioclavicular; CC, coracoclavicular.

The Rockwood classification system utilizes radiographs of the shoulder (AP, axillary, and Zanca views) to characterize the direction and displacement of the injured shoulder, in relation to the contralateral side. Type I injuries involve a sprain or partial tear to the AC ligament without clinical or radiographic evidence of joint instability or CC ligament injury. Type II injuries include a complete tear of the AC ligament, with only a sprain or partial tear to the CC ligaments. Intact CC ligaments prevent drastic acromial depression and aid in maintaining the normal relationship of the joint, thus, identifying these injuries radiographically can be challenging. Complete rupture of the AC ligaments may lead to horizontal instability. Type III injuries involve complete tears of the AC and CC ligament complexes.²³ Disruption of these ligaments can cause both vertical and horizontal instability that can be grossly appreciated, as well as an increased coracoclavicular (CC) distance up to 100% the uninjured side (Figure 2). The CC distance is defined as the length from superior cortex of the coracoid process to the undersurface of the clavicle where the CC ligaments insert. Type IV injuries also require complete tears of the AC and CC ligaments, but are specifically characterized by distal clavicle posterior displacement, which commonly results in buttonholing of the trapezius. Type V injuries are simply more severe Type III injuries. These injuries similarly result in complete tears of the AC and CC ligament complexes, but the CC distance is increased between 100–300% of normal (Figure 3). Type VI injuries are characterized by inferior displacement of the distal clavicle, either inferior to the acromion or coracoid, with complete disruption of ligamentous complexes and likely damage to the trapezial fascia and/or deltoid.

Figure 2.

True anteroposterior comparative radiograph, with x-ray beam directed 10–15 degrees cephalad (Zanca view), showing bilateral acromioclavicular (AC) joints. Left – a Rockwood type III dislocation injury of the left AC joint. Right – a normal right AC joint.

Figure 3.

Conventional anteroposterior radiographic images showing both acromioclavicular joints. The left side shows a Rockwood type V injury (circle) with an increase in the coracoclavicular (CC) distance of more than 100%. Pentagon - Normal CC distance on the right uninjured side. Star - Increased CC distance of more than 100% in a Rockwood type V injury.

The Rockwood classification is meant to serve as a treatment guide. Type I and II injuries are typically managed non-operatively, while type IV–VI injuries are treated with surgical reduction and stabilization. There remains controversy over the management of type III injuries without consensus. Although historically these injuries are treated non-operatively, some patients respond poorly and may benefit from surgical intervention. Recently, the International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Upper Extremity Committee (ISAKOS) has suggested a more specific classification that subdivides type III injuries into IIIA and IIIB. Type IIIA injuries present as stable, while grade IIIB injuries are thought to be unstable with positive radiological and clinical findings pointing to additional horizontal instability (Figure 4).²³ The authors agree that type III injuries must be evaluated carefully and managed individually since unstable injuries (type IIIB) are more likely to result in continued morbidity. Furthermore, remembering to address co-pathologies is essential in achieving optimal outcomes with over 50% of patients with AC joint dislocations type III and V present with concomitant intra-articular glenohumeral injury.²⁴

Figure 4.

Conventional axial radiographic images of a left shoulder demonstrating static horizontal instability in a Rockwood type IIIB injury. Blue plane – Acromion; Green plane – Clavicle; Star - Increase in posterior static translation.

Nonoperative Treatment

Optimal treatment of AC joint injuries remains controversial. In general, it is accepted that Rockwood type I and II AC joint dislocations are treated non-operatively.²⁵ Treatment of these injuries typically consists of pain medication, cryotherapy and the use of a sling for comfort for one to two weeks with the encouragement of early range of motion activities and weaning of the sling as pain permits. In contrast, type IV–VI injuries have classically been treated in an operative manner.¹⁵ Controversy remains about optimal treatment of type III injuries²⁰ as well as new evidence of trials of non-operative management even for type V AC separations.²⁶

As studies have shown good to excellent outcomes in 80% of patients treated non-operatively in the setting of a type III AC injury,²⁷ authors are now advocating for initial conservative management in type III injuries and only resorting to surgery when the trial of non-operative management fails.²⁸ Identifying those that may fail has been the key to determining more aggressive options of treatment to include early surgical intervention as there is some evidence to suggest that chronic injuries do worse than those that are treated acutely.²⁹ Patient lifestyle and demand has been a determining factor in advocating for surgery in the setting of type III injuries in patients that are considered high demand, athletic and laborers.³⁰ Additionally, patients that perform routine activities such as bench press or push-ups may warrant surgical treatment in order to obtain optimal clinical outcomes (ie military population).^27,31 In these population groups who may be less tolerant to persistent AC instability, a variety of radiographic techniques have been described to evaluate dynamic instability of the AC joint. Bontempo et al described using a cross arm-adduction radiograph to identify horizontal AC instability by evaluating clavicular overlap on the acromion.³² Alexander et al describes obtaining scapular Y radiographs of bilateral shoulders with cross arm adduction to allow for direct comparison of AC overlap.^33,34 These stress radiographs can be used to determine when early operative intervention in an at-risk population is warranted.

Interestingly, patients with type V injuries may be offered a trial of non-operative management. Even in the high demand population such as the military, Krul et al demonstrated that when treated initially with conservative management, patients with type V AC injuries return to duty at equivalent rates and time.²⁶ They also found that total clavicle displacement was a more reliable indicator compared to change in CC distance in determining patients that went on to fail non-operative management.²⁶ Figure 5 illustrates an approach to the management of AC joint dislocations.

Figure 5.

Flowchart illustrating the management of acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

Operative Treatment

Timing to Surgery

The AC joint ligaments lose their potential to heal after three weeks following injury.³⁵ Therefore, in AC joint dislocations acuity is commonly defined as < 3 weeks and chronicity as > 6 weeks.³⁶ However, as previously discussed, type III injuries may require an initial course of non-operative treatment that usually extends one month;³⁷ therefore, defining acute as < 3 weeks is unrealistic in some circumstances. For this reason, some authors propose a threshold of six months for terming AC joint injuries chronic.³⁷ Indeed, the debate regarding chronicity is ongoing.

When surgery has been determined as the optimal treatment, there is moderate evidence to support early operative intervention compared to that of delayed surgical reconstruction. Rolf et al compared outcomes of early versus delayed AC joint stabilization with improvement in Constant scores, maintenance of surgical reduction, improvement in patient satisfaction and less overall complications in the early treatment cohort.³⁸ Similarly, a systematic review of eight studies by Song et al demonstrated improvement in Constant scores and overall functional outcomes in early versus delayed operative intervention.³⁹ In contrast, Krul et al showed in their series of active duty military patients with type V AC dislocations, that those that undergo reconstruction in a delayed fashion show no statistical delay in return to duty.²⁶ Higher powered studies with randomization of groups when determining timing of surgery is required to truly determine the effect of early versus delayed treatment.

AC-Stabilization in Acute Cases

Stabilization with Metallic Devices

Several techniques for the reduction of acute AC dislocations have been published. Table 2 summarizes outcomes and complications from the most recent literature. Historically, metal implants such as the Bosworth screw, which has shown to be effective in surgical stabilization of grade III, IV and V AC joint dislocations, have been technically easy to implant in a short surgical time. Biomechanically, Ammon et al⁴⁰ showed that the Bosworth screw restored the strength close to the native AC joint with intact coracoclavicular ligaments. Clinical long-term results suggest that the Bosworth screw technique is reliable and provides adequate reduction and similar outcomes in terms of function and pain level when compared to minimally-invasive K-wire fixation.⁴¹ Compared to K-wires the Bosworth screw has shown to be superior in early infection rates and lower rates of AC joint osteoarthritis (intra- vs extraarticular fixation) after 8 years.⁴¹ However, compared to newer suspensory device techniques the Bosworth screw presented with less patient satisfaction and more inconveniences.⁴² Furthermore, in all patients treated with the Bosworth screw, a second surgical intervention with known associated risks was necessary to remove the implant.⁴²

Table 2.

Summary of the Most Recent Literature (< 10 Years) Regarding Surgical Treatment of AC Joint Dislocation

Author and Year	Rockwood Type	Acuity	No. of Patients (Shoulders)	Type of Treatment (n)	Mean Age Years	Mean Follow-Up, Months	Postoperative Outcome Scores		Complications
Cetinkaya et al 201741	III	Acute	32 (32)	Bosworth (16) vs modified Phemister (16)	Bosworth: 38; modified Phemister: 53.3	Bosworth: 96; modified Phemister: 93	Bosworth: Median CS (range): 86 (70–100)	Modified Phemister: Median CS (range): 89 (45–100)	Bosworth: 18% ligament ossification 0% wound infection 12% recurrent dislocation 12% ACJ arthrosis	Modified Phemister: 12% ligament ossification 12% wound infection 6.5% recurrent dislocation 18% ACJ arthrosis
Darabos et al 201542	III	Acute	68 (68)	TightRope (34) vs Bosworth (34)	TightRope: 37.25; Bosworth: 41.18	6	TightRope: Mean CS: 92.22 Mean OSS: 44.59 DASH score: 6.46	Bosworth: Mean CS: 87.42 Mean OSS: 43.17 DASH score: 9.9	TightRope: 5.88% recurrent dislocation	Bosworth: 11.76% recurrent dislocation
Wang et al 201846	III	Acute	16 (16)	Allograft (8) vs Hook plate (8)	Allograft: 49; Hook plate: 41.3	30.3	Allograft: Mean CS (range): 94.4 (86–100) Mean UCLA score (range): 33.5 (30–35)	Hook plate: Mean CS (range): 93.8 (84–98) Mean UCLA score (range): 34.1 (31–35)	Not specifically reported
Martetschläger et al 201348	III–V	Acute and chronic	55 (59)	Cortical Button (13) vs Allograft (46)	43.6	2.4 years	Patients without complication: Mean ASES score (range): 91 (63–100) Mean SANE (range): 89 (2–100) Mean QuickDASH score (range): 7 (27.2–0)		Cortical Button (total 23.1%): 1 coracoid fracture 2 cases of hardware failure	Allograft (total 28.3%): 7 construct failures 2 clavicle fractures 1 hypertrophic distal clavicle 1 suture granuloma 1 axillary nerve compression due to scar tissue 1 frozen shoulder
Mori et al 201751	III–V	Acute	19 (20)	Endobutton	32.3	12.7 years	Mean CS (SD): 97.1 (4.9) Mean ASES score (SD): 98.8 (2.7)		3 posterior displacement 2 pullout of the button 4 ossifications 18 ACJ osteoarthritis
Kocaoglu et al 201760	III	Chronic	32 (32)	Weaver-Dunn + TightRope (16) vs Allograft + GraftRope (16)	39.7	44.9	Weaver-Dunn + TightRope: Mean ASES score (range): 89.7 (78–96) Mean CS (range): 89.9 (80–98)	Allograft + GraftRope: Mean ASES score (range): 94.5 (90–98) Mean CS (range): 93.1 (90–98)	Weaver-Dunn + TightRope: 1 superficial wound infection	Allograft + GraftRope: None
Hegazy et al 201670		Chronic	20 (20)	Modified Weaver-Dunn vs Autograft	39	27.8	Modified Weaver-Dunn: OSS (SD): 42 (2) NCS (SD): 84 (11)	Autograft: OSS (SD): 50 (2) NCS (SD): 95 (8)	Modified Weaver-Dunn: 3 “failures” 3 superficial wound infections	Autograft: 0 failures 4 superficial wound infections
Fauci et al 201377	III + IV	Chronic	40 (40)	Allograft (20) vs Synthetic ligament (20)	35	4 years	Allograft: Mean CS (SD): 94.2 (4.9) Mean UCLA score (SD): 18.2 (1.7)	Synthetic ligament: Mean CS (SD): 85.9 (16) Mean UCLA score (SD):15.4 (4.2)	Allograft: 4 posterior subluxation < 50% 8 ACJ arthrosis 13 Osteolysis	Synthetic ligament: 6 posterior subluxation < 50% 2 complete dislocation 1 loosening of screw, fracture of distal clavicle and incomplete rupture of synthetic ligament 7 ossification 11 ACJ arthrosis 16 osteolysis
Tiefenboeck et al 201879	III–V	Acute	47 (47)	LARS	37	89	Mean CS (range): 93 (5–100) Mean DASH score (range): 2.6 (0–31) Mean ASES score (range): 96 (53–100) Mean SST (range): 97 (42–100) Mean UCLA score (range): 34 (20–35)		1 screw pullout with skin irritation 2 late infections 5 partial loss of reduction 1 complete loss of reduction 6 ACJ arthrosis 18 ossifications
Zhu et al 201883	III–V	Acute + chronic	18 (18)	Autograft	51	12	Mean CS (SD): 93 (9)		10 loss of reduction 2 ossifications 9 tunnel widening 1 shoulder pain at 12 months
Carofino et al 201084	III + V	Chronic	21 (22)	ACCR with Allo- or autograft	44	21	Mean ASES score (SD): 92 (5) Mean SST score (SD): 11.8 (0.4) Mean CS (SD): 94.7 (5.02) Mean SANE: 94.4		1 persistent pain 1 chronic infection 1 loss of reduction
Baran et al 201885	III–V	Acute + chronic	17 (17)	ACCR with Allograft	44	3 years	Mean SST score (SD): 10.8 (1.8) ASES score (SD): 80.5 (20.4)		12% major complications: 1 graft rupture 1 deep infection 24% minor complications: 4 loss of reduction <50%
Kibler et al 201790	III–V	Acute + chronic	15 (15)	Allograft	42	3 years	Mean DASH score (SD): 13±15		1 loss of reduction (following fall)
Tauber et al 201691	III–V	Chronic	26 (26)	Triple bundle autograft (12) vs double bundle autograft (14)	46.9	29	Triple bundle: Mean CS (SD): 88.8 (9.5) Mean ACJI score (SD): 84.7 (12.3) Mean Taft score (SD): 10.9 (1.2) Mean ASES score (SD): 95.3 (6.9) Mean SSV, % (SD): 84.1 (10.7)	Double bundle: Mean CS (SD): 82.6 (11.6) Mean ACJI score (SD): 58.4 (16.3) Mean Taft score (SD): 9.0 (2.3) Mean ASES score (SD): 88.0 (11.1) Mean SSV, % (SD): 78.0 (18.2)	Triple bundle: 1 complete loss of reduction 1 hypesthesia at the region of tendon harvesting	Double bundle: 3 complete loss of reduction 2 hypesthesia at the region of tendon harvesting
Millet et al 201592	III + V	Acute + chronic	31 (31)	ACCR with Allograft	43.9	3.5 years	Mean ASES score (SD): 93.8 (9.1) Mean SANE score (SD): 89.1 (13.6) Mean QuickDASH score (SD): 5.6 (8.1)		Revisions and complications in 25.8% 2 graft rupture 1 loss of reduction 2 distal clavicle hypertrophy 2 clavicle fracture 1 adhesive capsulitis
Hann et al 2018101	V	Acute	59 (59)	Double TightRope with acromioclavicular cerclage	38.3 (median)	26.4 (median)	Median CS (range): 90 (33–100) Median SSV, % (range): 90 (25–100) Median Taft score (range): 11 (8–12) Median ACJI score (range): 87 (43–100)		Revisions in 11.7% 2 implant irritation 1 recurrent instability 1wound infection
Muench et al 201937	III + V	Chronic	43 (43)	ACCR with Allograft	43.4	3.4 years	Mean ASES score (SD): 82.0 (21.8) Mean ROWE score (SD): 88.6 (12.3) Mean CS (SD): 87.4 (15.1) Mean SST (SD): 9.4 (3.7) Mean SANE score (SD): 85.7 (17.6)		Complications in 25.6% 3 ossifications 2 deep infection 1 superficial infection 3 ACJ arthrosis 2 loss of reduction

Abbreviations: ACCR, Anatomic Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction; ACJI, Acromioclavicular Joint Instability; ASES, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons; CS, Constant Score; DASH, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; NCS, Nottingham Clavicle Score; OSS, Oxford Shoulder Score; SANE, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation; SD, standard deviation; SPADI, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index; SST, Simple Shoulder Test; SSV, Subjective Shoulder Value; UCLA, University of California Los Angeles.

The hook plate metallic device showed early promise as an alternative implant to treat unstable AC injuries. In direct comparison to the Bosworth screw, Kezunovìc et al⁴³ observed a lower, yet not significant, complication rate in patients treated with the hook plate and significantly higher Constant scores and patient satisfaction when compared to the Bosworth screw. However, this difference diminished over time as reported in the long-term study by Broos et al⁴⁴ Koukakis et al suggests removal of the hook plate within 3 months to avoid the possibility of plate related subacromial impingement. This may lead to lower postoperative pain and complication rates when compared to suspensory device fixations, however, suspensory device fixations have higher shoulder function scores as summarized by Arirachakaran et al in a systematic review and meta-analysis.⁴⁵

Suspensory Devices

Over time, surgical treatment of relevant acute AC joint dislocations has become more minimal-invasive using low-profile suspensory devices (Figure 6). One of the advantages of suspensory devices are that the hardware does not need to be removed. This advantage was shown by Wang et al in their clinical comparison of suspensory device fixation with additional tendon allograft compared to hook plating.⁴⁶ Additionally, Millett et al⁴⁷ described the advantage of suspensory device fixation in relation to its arthroscopically assisted approach, which allows for the detection of concomitant glenohumeral pathologies associated with acute and chronic acromioclavicular joint injuries.²⁴

Figure 6.

Conventional anteroposterior radiographic images of a left shoulder following stabilization with a suspensory button device (circle).

Clinical short-term results after suspensory device fixation showed excellent postoperative outcome scores (mean ASES score of 93.8 points) and no further revision surgery, however, complications occurred in 23%.⁴⁸ A closer look at complications following cortical button fixation or additional tendon graft fixation by Martetschlaeger and Millett detected a construct survivorship of 86% at 12 months and 83% at 24 months postoperatively.⁴⁸ To further reveal risk factors for failure of suspensory devices, Spiegl et al investigated the influence of bone tunnel diameter on construct strength and the risk for clavicle fractures in their biomechanical study comparing two common CC reconstruction techniques.⁴⁹ While the use of an additional allograft increased construct strength, it also increased tunnel diameter and the associated risk for clavicle fractures.⁴⁸

To keep the advantage of increased strength after incorporation of an additional tendon graft, which is theorized to generate an increase in both primary and secondary stability due to its biologic component, the arthroscopic acromioclavicular joint reconstruction technique using a suspensory device with an additional tendon graft was modified by Menge et al⁵⁰ with the graft looped around the clavicle and coracoid process instead of using bone tunnels. This technique allows for smaller bone drilling and decreased fracture risk. At the same time a knotless fixation was introduced to avoid knot and hardware irritation while maintaining excellent stability.

Furthermore, reducing anatomic CC ligament reconstruction from double- to single-bundle reconstruction for the treatment of acute AC joint dislocations resulted in less drilling-associated fracture risk and successful long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes as demonstrated by Mori et al⁵¹.

AC-Reconstruction in Chronic Cases

Chronic ACJ instability is a challenging injury to treat for orthopedic surgeons. It can occur from delayed initial or failed non-operative or operative treatment of AC joint dislocations. It is widely accepted that the AC and CC ligaments lose their potential to heal greater than 3 weeks after the injury³⁵ however, as discussed previously, the debate on defining chronicity is ongoing.^36,37 When comparing the outcomes following operative treatment of acute (< 3 weeks) vs chronic (> 3 weeks) ACJ injuries, it has been demonstrated that for chronic injuries, poorer results can be expected.^35,38,39,52 While acute treatment of AC joint dislocations aims to approximate the ends of the AC and CC ligaments in order to achieve healing, the biological capabilities are compromised in chronic cases.^35,53,54 Therefore, mechanical stabilization of the dislocated joint alone without the use of biological augmentation may be insufficient. The next paragraphs aim to provide an overview of historical and current treatment concepts of chronic AC joint instability.

Ligament and Tendon Transfers

The transposition of the coracoacromial (CA) ligament to the distal clavicle has first been introduced by Weaver and Dunn in 1972 to stabilize AC joint dislocations.⁵⁵ A distal clavicle excision was performed as an adjunct to the ligament transfer.⁵⁵ Rauschning et al reported on excellent clinical outcomes following the Weaver-Dunn procedure in 18 patients.⁵⁶ Kawabe et al treated 41 patients and achieved favorable results in Rockwood type III dislocations.⁵⁷

To further improve healing and initial stability of the construct, numerous changes to the original technique such as additional augmentation (e.g. sutures, screws, suspensory button devices, plates)^58–62 and fixation techniques (e.g. bone chip from the acromion)^63,64 were introduced. This altered design was referred to as a “modified Weaver-Dunn procedure”. However, the coracoacromial ligament as a graft source represents only 25% of the native biomechanical strength of the CC ligaments.^65,66 In the absence of other biological structures, which is the case in chronic AC joint dislocations, the CA ligament transfer and its modifications are more susceptible to failure, even after complete healing of the construct. This can potentially lead to recurrent instability in up to 30% of patients.^35,55 Furthermore, another potential downside of the Weaver-Dunn technique is sacrificing the CA ligament, which is part of the coracoacromial arc and acts as a static restraint against anterosuperior migration of the humeral head, especially in patients with massive rotator cuff tears.^67–69 Additionally, the vector of the transferred CA ligament does not represent the vector of the native CC ligaments.⁶⁵

With the advent of autogenic and allogenic tendons in orthopedics, as well as newer implants, the Weaver-Dunn procedure is losing its role in the treatment of chronic AC joint dislocations. Tauber et al demonstrated in a prospective comparative study on chronic AC joint dislocations, that a semitendinosus graft resulted in significantly superior clinical and radiological outcomes compared to the modified Weaver-Dunn procedure.⁶⁴ Hegazy et al also demonstrated superior outcomes in comparison to the modified Weaver-Dunn procedure by using a semitendinosus tendon in chronic AC joint injuries.⁷⁰ Kocaoglu et al compared an autogenic palmaris longus graft to a modified Weaver-Dunn procedure in chronic dislocations and postulated benefits for the graft group with significantly better outcome scores.⁶⁰ When comparing the modified Weaver-Dunn procedure to synthetic ligaments for the treatment of chronic dislocations, the synthetic ligament resulted in better outcome scores as well as earlier return to work and sport.⁷¹ In a systematic review by Borbas et al tendon or ligament transfers, such as the Weaver-Dunn procedure, showed inferior clinical and radiological outcomes when compared to non-biological (e.g. synthetic ligaments and suture loops) and biological (e.g. allograft or autograft) fixation techniques.⁵³ Furthermore, ligament and tendon transfers resulted in the highest overall complication rate (17.3%) with infections being the most common complication (7.4%).⁵³

Dynamic Fixation with Conjoined Tendons

In order to avoid harvesting the CA ligament with the possibility of weakening the coracoacromial arc, the idea of utilizing the short head of the biceps was first introduced in 1942.⁷² Sloan et al postulated that the lateral half of the conjoined tendon is a viable and slightly more stable alternative (265 N) to the CA ligament transfer (246 N).⁷³ However, the native CC ligaments where still 250% stronger (621 N).⁷³ In a retrospective study involving 38 patients with an average follow up of 38.7 months, good clinical results according to the Constant score (90.6 points) and good to excellent satisfaction in 89% of patients was achieved with this technique.⁶⁹ However, radiological evaluation at the time of final follow up showed loss of reduction in 21% of cases.⁶⁹ Kim et al combined the lateral half of the conjoined tendon with a CA ligament transfer in chronic AC joint dislocations with the additional use of Steinman pins for trans-fixation and reported their results of 12 patients with a follow up of 2 years.⁷⁴ No loss of reduction at final follow up was observed, and 11 out of 12 patients showed excellent results (18.5 points) according to the UCLA score.⁷⁴ However, the additional use of Steinman pins required secondary removal, and due to the CA ligament transfer the coracoacromial arc was interrupted. Le Hanneur et al described a technique using a split short head of the biceps tendon in addition to a CA ligament transfer.⁷⁵ The split tendon was fixed to the clavicle in an anatomic position to account for the individual position of the conoid and trapezoid ligaments. A biomechanical comparison utilizing the above mentioned technique showed significantly lower displacements after cyclic loading in the axial plane compared to a modified Weaver-Dunn procedure.⁷⁶ However, clinical results are not yet available for this technique and CA ligament harvesting again poses the risk for anterosuperior migration of the humeral head.^67–69

Synthetic Ligaments

Numerous synthetic materials such as carbon fiber, polytetrafluoroethylene (GoreTex^®) and polyethyleneterephthalate (LARS^®; Dacron^®) have been used as artificial ligaments for the treatment of chronic AC joint dislocations. These materials aim to provide primary stability and induce healing through colonization of fibroblasts into their interwoven and porous fibers.⁷⁷ Fraschini et al reported on a success rate (good to excellent results) in 93.3% of patients when using the LARS^® ligament, with a complication rate of only 3.3%.⁷⁸ Using a Dacron^® vascular prosthesis a success rate of only 53.3% was achieved. Furthermore, a high complication rate (43.3%) in the Dacron^® group was observed, mostly due to rupture of the neoligament (23.3%).⁷⁸ Tiefenboeck et al reported on good to excellent outcomes in all 47 patients after a mean follow up of 7.4 years with the use of the LARS^® ligament.⁷⁹ Complications occurred in 5 patients (11%), necessitating surgical revision in 4 patients.⁷⁹ Also, the use of a vascular graft (GorePropaten^®) showed acceptable results in chronic ACJ dislocations with no infections, a mean DASH score of 6.42 points and Constant score of 82 points at 24 months follow up.⁸⁰

However, when comparing the use of a semitendinosus graft with the use of a LARS^® ligament in chronic AC joint dislocations Rockwood type III or higher, a significantly better Constant score was demonstrated at 1 and 4 years follow up in the “biological” group.⁷⁷ Despite relatively good results, synthetic ligaments are still associated with a significant degree of foreign body reactions and should be used with caution.⁸¹

Reconstruction with Allo- and Autografts

Although, allografts and autografts such as palmaris longus,^60,82 flexor carpi radialis,⁸² peroneus longus,⁸³ and tibialis anterior tendons⁸⁴ have been utilized for the treatment of AC joint dislocations, hamstring tendons are most commonly used.^{53,64,77,84–87} Tendon grafts are used in both acute and chronic AC joint dislocations, however, they are most beneficial in chronic AC joint injuries, since in order to facilitate healing, biological augmentation is needed.⁸⁸

Free tendon grafts have been shown to provide superior biomechanical strength compared to the Weaver-Dunn procedure^65,82,87,89 and similar biomechanical strength to suspensory button devices.⁸⁸ Also, clinical studies focusing on the reconstruction of chronic AC joint dislocations have yielded favorable results when using tendon grafts. Fauci et al demonstrated better clinical and radiographic outcomes for semitendinosus grafts compared to a synthetic ligament.⁷⁷ Performing an anatomic reconstruction using a tibialis anterior allograft or semitendinosus graft, Carofino and Mazzocca reported on good clinical outcomes in their case series of 17 patients with significant improvements in pre- to postoperative SST, Constant and ASES scores.⁸⁴ However, they experienced a revision rate of 17.6% due to AC joint pain, infection, and loss of reduction.⁸⁴ When using a semitendinosus graft to reconstruct both the AC and CC ligaments, Kibler et al reported on good clinical outcomes with a DASH score of 13 points after a minimum follow up of 1.5 years with no complications related to the surgical procedure.⁹⁰ In a systematic review on surgical management of chronic AC joint dislocations, biological fixation with tendon grafts proved to result in better postoperative outcomes compared to nonbiological fixation and ligament/tendon transfers (e.g. Weaver-Dunn).⁵³ Also, the reported complication rate was relatively low (15.5%) when considering the highest rate (33.8%) of previous AC joint reconstructions in the tendon graft group.⁵³

Current literature focusses on “anatomic” reconstruction of the CC ligaments, to best restore the native CC and AC ligaments.^82,87,89,91 However, it is hard to determine which AC joint reconstruction is truly anatomical. Wellmann et al postulated, that reconstructions should only be referred to as “anatomic” if they address the native CC ligament insertions on the coracoid and clavicle, thus necessitating two points of fixations on both the clavicle and coracoid.⁸⁸ Some authors argue, that a truly anatomic AC joint reconstruction must include the AC ligaments as well.^90,91 However, when aiming to perform an anatomic AC joint reconstruction care should be taken to find a compromise between anatomic reconstruction using multiple points of fixation (e.g. drill holes/tunnels) and increasing the risk for coracoid and clavicle fractures.⁴⁹ Milewski et al reported two coracoid and three clavicle fractures in a series of 27 patients following anatomic reconstruction of the CC ligaments when using a coracoid bone tunnel or two clavicular bone tunnels. Millett et al reported a 6.5% clavicle fracture rate following anatomic CC reconstruction using two clavicular bone tunnels for graft fixation.⁹² Martetschläger et al reported on a clavicle fracture rate of 4.6% in patients treated with a tendon graft.⁴⁸

Senior Authors Preferred Technique

The senior author of this manuscript (blinded for review) prefers an arthroscopic reconstruction technique using a knotless CC fixation and soft-tissue anatomic CC ligament reconstruction for both acute and chronic AC joint dislocations.⁵⁰ Indications include acute and chronic Rockwood type IV to VI injuries, horizontally unstable type IIIB and symptomatic type IIIA injuries that have failed a course of non-operative management.^23,93 A standard diagnostic arthroscopy is performed, and concomitant injuries are treated accordingly.²⁴ The subcoracoid space is then debrided and the inferior aspect of the coracoid is prepared (Figure 7A). A 2 to 3cm skin incision and subsequent subcutaneous dissection are performed over the distal end of the clavicle perpendicular to its long axis. A cannula of appropriate size to fit an AC aiming device is inserted through an anteroinferolateral portal. The aiming device is then placed centered on the undersurface of the coracoid (Figure 7B). A 2.4 mm cannulated drill bit is drilled through the distal clavicle and coracoid under arthroscopic visualization. Subsequently, a unicortical reamer is utilized to drill a centered bone socket into the superior aspect of the distal clavicle to avoid soft tissue irritation of the later placed fixation device. A suture is passed from superior through the cannulated drill and retrieved through the anteroinferolateral portal with an arthroscopic grasper (Figure 8A). After removing the drill, a double-loaded knotless CC fixation device (Dog Bone; Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA) is then inserted through the shuttling suture and passed through the coracoid and clavicular bone tunnels. The cortical button is positioned flush on the coracoid undersurface (Figure 8B). The AC joint is then reduced, and the fixation device is pulled securely followed by cutting of the suture ends.

Figure 7.

Arthroscopic images of a left shoulder. (A) Preparation of the undersurface of the coracoid base with an arthroscopic shaver. (B) Placement of the arthroscopic aiming device at the base of the coracoid. Pentagon – Coracoid; Circle - Arthroscopic shaver; Star -Arthroscopic aiming device.

Figure 8.

Arthroscopic images of a left shoulder. (A): Retrieval of the shuttle suture for the suspensory device with an arthroscopic grasper. (B): Placement of the cortical button on the undersurface of the base of the coracoid. Pentagon – Coracoid; Circle - Cannulated drill; Star - Cortical Button.

For anatomic reconstruction, an allograft (hamstrings or tibialis anterior) or an autograft (hamstrings) can be used. Two soft tissue tunnels are created for soft-tissue passage with the use of a dilator. Under direct arthroscopic visualization, the first tunnel is created from the posterior aspect of the clavicle to the medial aspect of the coracoid, and the second tunnel is placed from the anterior aspect of the clavicle to the lateral aspect of the coracoid, recreating the conoid and the trapezoid vector respectively. The graft is then passed through the soft-tissue tunnels and looped around the coracoid with the help of shuttling sutures (Figure 9A). The ends of the graft are secured to each other on top of the clavicle with nonabsorbable suture, thus re-creating the anatomical position of the CC ligaments (Figure 9B). This technique combines the benefits of a high primary stability due to the CC fixation device with cortical buttons with the long-term advantages of a biologic graft augmentation and negates the need for larger bone tunnels in the clavicle or coracoid for graft fixation, thus reducing fracture risk.^48,92

Figure 9.

Arthroscopic and external view of the placed tendon graft. (A): Arthroscopic view of the tendon graft that was looped around the coracoid. (B): External view of the placed graft and sutured graft. Pentagon – Coracoid; Star - Tendon graft.

The Role of the AC Capsule and Ligaments

The contribution of the AC capsule and AC ligaments to translational as well as posterior rotational stability of the AC joint is generally accepted and has been proven in various biomechanical studies reaching back 20 years.^12,94 However, scientific interest in the AC capsule and ligaments has substantially grown during the last decade.^95–98 Scheibel et al were among the first to demonstrate that clinical outcomes were poorer when horizontal instability persisted, as opposed to persistent vertical instability, when performing AC joint stabilization.⁹⁹ They concluded, that more attention should be paid to the posterior component of AC joint instability. In the following years, a multitude of techniques were developed to address this issue, mainly focusing on restoring the integrity of the AC capsule and ligaments.^90,91,97,100

The addition of an AC cerclage to the CC stabilization lead to superior radiological results with a lower incidence of dynamic posterior instability and improved clinical outcomes in a study performed by Hann et al¹⁰¹. Furthermore, reconstruction of both the AC and CC ligaments proved to be beneficial in a study conducted by Tauber et al in which a single-bundle technique was compared to a triple-bundle technique using hamstring autografts in 26 patients.⁹¹ The triple-bundle technique resulted in no significant differences in the Constant and ASES scores after a minimum follow-up of 2 years, yet the AC joint specific scores (ACJI and Taft score) where significantly superior compared to the single-bundle technique.⁹¹ Also, the ACJ instability recurrence rate was higher in the single-bundle group (21%) in comparison to the triple-bundle group (8%).⁹¹

In a systematic review, CC stabilization with additional augmentation of the AC joint has been shown to improve horizontal stability in both biomechanical and clinical studies compared to CC stabilization alone.¹⁰² However, so far no clinical advantage was demonstrated for the additional AC augmentation with respect to the ASES and Constant scores.¹⁰²

Perspective

In the authors’ opinion, future research regarding AC joint dislocations will need to focus on evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic horizontal instability considering there is no consensus to date.¹⁰³ Various techniques have been described to address both the AC capsule and ligaments, using different fixation techniques as well as biological augmentation.^90,91,101 In a biomechanical study, Dyrna et al demonstrated that all investigated techniques of AC augmentation significantly improved the stability against translational and rotational loading, however, all tested suture constructs were unable to restore the properties of the native AC capsule and ligaments.⁹⁷ This is plausible, since most techniques involve only 2 points of fixation and can rotate around their own axis at the level of the AC joint. Morikawa et al proposed that the integrity of the AC capsule and ligament is best restored when the entire acromioclavicular ligament complex is repaired (acute) or reconstructed (chronic).⁹⁸ The same working group recently published a biomechanical study using patch augmentation to reconstruct the AC capsule and ligaments in addition to reconstruction of the CC ligaments.¹⁰⁴ They found that the reconstruction of the AC capsule and ligaments with dermal allograft in addition to CC reconstruction restored posterior translational and rotational stability closest to normal.¹⁰⁴ However, to date a gold standard has not yet been established.

Conclusion

Treating acute and chronic ACJ injuries is still a challenging task for orthopedic surgeons. Considering these injuries mostly affect younger patients, long-term consequences involving cosmesis and shoulder dysfunction are not yet well understood, and therefore must be anticipated.

The myriad of existing techniques is indicative for the uncertainty regarding this topic and a gold standard has not yet been determined. However, when diagnosed correctly and treated accordingly, results are overall satisfactory.

Disclosure

The position of PCN and LL at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute is supported by Arthrex. PJM is a consultant for and receives royalties from Arthrex, Medbridge, and Springer; owns stock in GameReady and VuMedi; receives support from the Steadman Philippon Research Institute and Vail Valley Medical Center; and has corporate sponsorship from the Steadman Philippon Research Institute, Smith & Nephew, Arthrex, Siemens. The authors report no other conflicts of interest in this work.