Early loss of radiographic reduction after acute acromioclavicular joint reconstruction: Comparison of open Double Endobutton fixation vs. Nottingham Surgilig

Introduction: Surgical treatment is usually recommended for the acute unstable acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations. Among the wide variety of different surgical techniques, the Double Endobutton and the Nottingham Surgilig technique are two of the most widely acceptable and well described techniques. The aim of this study was to offer a direct comparison of the above techniques in question, analysing the patients outcomes and assessing the risk of early loss of radiographic reduction. Materials and methods: A total of 48 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Patients were categorised in two groups (Endobutton and Nottingham Surgilig group) and post operative assessment of the patients was performed using the Oxford Shoulder (OSS) and Constant Murley (CMS) scores. Patient demographics, hand dominance, ACJ classification and co-morbidities were included in the analysis and radiographic evaluation was conducted for both groups. Results: Both techniques provide a good outcome in the management of unstable ACJ dislocations but the risk of early radiographic failure remains higher in the double Endobutton technique (26% vs. 17.39% for the Nottingham Surgilig group). Factors such as patients’ demographics, hand dominance, co-morbidities and grade of ACJ separation do not seem to contribute to radiographic loss of reduction, whereas the incorrect positioning of the coracoid endobutton is a significant factor predisposing to early radiographic failure, P < 0.001. Discussion: The incidence of early loss of radiographic reduction still remains high in both groups. In order to reduce this common complication, accurate placement of the coracoid endobutton under fluoroscopic intra-operative control is strongly recommended.