Analysis of the curative effect of arthroscopic coracoid process drill-free U-shaped suspension fixation in the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to investigate the clinical effect of arthroscopic coracoid process drill-free U-shaped suspension fixation in the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Methods This retrospective clinical study analyzed the data of 25 patients with acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation. The patients were divided into a drill-free group and a drilling group. The University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Rating Scale, visual analog scale, and Constant scores as well as the shortest distance between the coracoid process and clavicle were evaluated before and after the surgery. Complications such as re-dislocation, loss of reduction, coracoid fracture, and clavicle fracture were evaluated. Results The averaging follow-up duration was 36 months. The shortest distance between the coracoid process and clavicle was significantly reduced immediately postoperatively and at the final follow-up in both groups. At the final follow-up, the postoperative University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Rating Scale, Constant, and visual analog scores of both groups were significantly improved compared with the preoperative scores (p < 0.01). However, two patients in the drilling group developed coracoid fractures and underwent surgery; no coracoid fractures were observed in the drill-free group. Conclusion The use of arthroscopic coracoid drill-free U-shaped suspension fixation to treat acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation achieves satisfactory clinical outcomes and considerably reduces the incidence of coracoid fractures compared with the coracoid drilling technique.