An Arthroscopic Modification of Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction and Distal Clavicle Fracture Fixation in the Lateral Position

Abstract

Distal clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular injuries are common shoulder injuries. Despite the frequency of these injuries, there is no gold standard for treatment. Recent suspensory fixation techniques have minimized the amount of hardware required for surgical treatment of both acromioclavicular separations and distal clavicle fractures. Advantages include reconstruction of ligamentous anatomy, minimal hardware irritation, earlier return to activity, and decreased need for hardware removal. These reconstructions are classically done in the beach chair position in an open fashion. Our preferred technique for treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular injuries is arthroscopy-assisted coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction with or without distal clavicle fixation in the lateral decubitus position.