Evaluation of the results of acute acromioclavicular joint reconstruction using Double Endobutton technique

Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation is a common injury, which accounts for ~9% of all shoulder injuries. Surgical techniques for reconstructing or repairing ACJ dislocation have evolved over the last decades. Recent surgical techniques focus on reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligament to recover the stability of ACJ. This was a prospective case series study that included 23 patients with acute ACJ dislocation, admitted to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kafr El Sheikh and Benha University. All cases were treated by coracoclavicular repair using Double Endobutton technique and Ethibond suture. The follow-up period ranged from 18 to 24 months postoperatively. Outcomes were assessed using Constant score and DASH score at of 6 weeks, 3, 6, 12 months, and final follow up. Radiological assessment was done using Zanca view and stress anteroposterior radiographs of both shoulders to compare acromiohumeral interval at the end of follow up. This study included 23 patients that were admitted to our department. Their mean age were 34.2 ± 2.3 years. The average time between injury and surgery was 5.2 ± 1.4 days. There were 20 men and three females. Regarding DASH score it improved from preoperative value of 88.3 ± 11.2 points to 14.3 ± 2.4 points. Regarding Constant score, it improved significantly from preoperative value of 45.3 ± 2.2 points to a postoperative value of 92.3 ± 3.6 points. Regarding acromiohumeral interval, the mean distance was 9.3 mm immediate postoperative period, and it was 10.1 at the end of follow up (P>0.05). ACJ reconstruction using Double Endobutton technique is safe, easy, and effective technique in cases with acute ACJ dislocation with little postoperative complications and excellent clinical and radiological outcomes.