[Restoring horizontal stability in III-V acromioclavicular dislocations by anatomic reconstruction of the coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular ligaments; surgical technique].

Abstract

Introduction: dislocation of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint is a common injury seen in young adults. The objective is to describe a surgical technique that can restore the horizontal and vertical stability of the AC joint.

Material and methods: we describe a surgical technique that can restore horizontal and vertical stability using an allograft for the anatomical reconstruction of the CC and AC ligaments, for AC grade III-V dislocations according to the Rockwood classification.

Results: this is a surgical technique with anatomical and biological reconstruction of the CC and AC ligaments, using an allograft. Two bone tunnels are made in the clavicle, passing the lateral end of the graft below the acromion; then the two ends are fixed with two bioabsorbable screws, restoring vertical and horizontal stability.

Conclusion: this procedure allows to restore the vertical and horizontal stability of the AC joint. Follow up studies are required to report functional and radiological results, in order to ensure advantages compared to existing techniques.