Intramedullary AC Ligament Reconstruction Strengthens Isolated CC Reconstruction in AC Dislocations

INTRODUCTION Techniques for reconstruction of the dislocated acromioclavicular (AC) joint are numerous. Most, however, do not incorporate reconstruction of the disrupted acromioclavicular ligaments and capsule. Evidence exists supporting the importance of these ligaments particularly in providing horizontal stability to the AC joint. Recently, biomechanical studies have demonstrated improved AC joint stability with free-tissue AC reconstruction grafts. However, the technical complexities of this reconstruction technique have raised concerns about their clinical applicability. Therefore a novel AC and coracolavicular (CC) reconstruction technique was modified with an intramedullary freetissue graft secured by suture buttons. This modified technique is lowprofile, technically straightforward and reproducible. This study sought to compare the biomechanical characteristics of this novel reconstruction with those of an isolated anatomical reconstruction of the CC ligaments.