Background: Opinion is divided as to optimum management of grade III acromioclavicular joint injuries that have failed conservative management. We objectively investigated the radiological and functional outcome of acromioclavicular joint reconstruction using the Ligament Augmentation Reconstruction System (LARS®).
Methods: Retrospective review of patients with LARS reconstruction of acromioclavicular joint dislocations with minimum six-year follow-up. Functional assessment was performed using the constant score, Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand score and simple satisfaction score. Radiological assessment was undertaken using plain radiographs. Results were compared with the uninjured limb.
Results: Twenty-four of 25 patients were included. Mean constant score for the injured shoulder was 87.0, Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand score was 11.6. All patients indicated that they would have the operation again. There were five complications including two patients that suffered small cracks in the clavicle. Coracoid erosion was frequently seen but was most often minor. In two cases, this resulted in a complete dissociation of the coracoid tip but without functional detriment.
Discussion: LARS is a safe and effective method of acromioclavicular joint reconstruction producing good results, and we recommend its use for these injuries. We also caution clinicians who use cerclage methods to be aware of coracoid erosion when following up their patients.
Keywords: Ligament Augmentation Reconstruction System; acromioclavicular joint; chronic; erosion; reconstruction.
© 2019 The British Elbow & Shoulder Society.