Repair of an Isolated Coracoid Fracture With Suture Anchor Fixation

Abstract

Coracoid fractures are rare injuries, which may occur in isolation or in association with other shoulder pathology. The mechanism of trauma consists of a strong contraction of the conjoint tendon as a result of direct trauma. The diagnosis is usually difficult and many times overlooked, thereby requiring a high level of suspicion. In many cases, standard trauma series shoulder radiographs are unable to provide a definitive and reliable diagnosis. Therefore, other imaging modalities may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Although uncommon, if left untreated, a coracoid fracture will result in chronic pain and shoulder disability. Both conservative and surgical techniques have been previously reported and shown positive outcomes. In regard to the surgical technique, most reports describe the use of screw fixation, which has been associated with full recovery and high patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, the purpose of this Technical Note is to describe our preferred method to treat an isolated type II displaced coracoid process fracture through suture anchor fixation.