Acromioclavicular joint dislocation: reconstruction of coracoclavicular ligament with fiber tape by using a new knot technique

Introduction Injuries to the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) can range from modest, transient pain to significant displacement, chronic pain, and shoulder biomechanical changes that result in long-term disability. We aimed to evaluate the functional outcome of anatomical reconstruction of the ACJ using fiber tape, as in type III–VI AC joint dislocations.
Materials and Methods In this study, 28 patients with AC joint dislocation (Rockwood type III–VI) were managed by surgical fixation using fiber tape from November 01, 2019, to October 31, 2024, at the tertiary care center. After providing written informed consent, the study enrolled patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria. The mean age of the participants was 36.50. Preoperative, three-month, and six-month UCLA shoulder scores were assessed.
Results The UCLA scores increased from 29.20 at three months to 35 at six months. Radiological evaluation at each visit suggested a 100.0 % success rate of this method. No participants had surgical site infection (SSI).
Discussion Several treatment options have been described for managing AC joint dislocations, including various implants and fixation methods, such as Bosworth screws, wires, locking plates, and hook plates. Unfortunately, these methods often lead to hardware-related complications, necessitating implant removal. The advantages of fiber-tape fixation technique include short surgery time, small incisions, fast recovery, cost-effectiveness, and ease of reproducibility.
Conclusions Open reduction internal fixation with a knot using fiber tape for type III–VI AC joint injuries is a viable surgical option. It has the advantages of being stable, single surgery, and excellent functional outcomes. However, extensive multicentric comparative studies are required to draw definitive conclusions.

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