Abstract
This study is designed to assess and evaluate the results of arthroscopic acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) minimal excision arthroplasty.
Twenty-two patients with ACJ arthropathy underwent an arthroscopic limited excision of the ACJ preserving the superior ligamentous complex. The patients were assessed pre and post operatively using the Constant score. The average time from surgery to review was five months (three to nineteen months). A self assessment questionnaire was also used, evaluating outcome measures such as activities of daily living, shoulder function and patients satisfaction.
The mean preoperative Constant score was 28 and postoperative score was 71 with an improvement in pain from 15% to 80%, the subjective score from 22% to 45%, and the range of motion from 37% to 84%. The preoperative self assessment score was 25.9 and postoperative score was 83 with an improvement in activities of daily living from 28% to 78%, and shoulder function from 34% to 87%. Twenty patients were very satisfied, one was moderately satisfied and one patient was dissatisfied although his shoulder function increased from 20 to 60%.
This study suggests that this technique is well accepted by the patients and results in a good improvement in shoulder function. The results are comparable with those reported in the literature concerning the standard ACJ arthroplasty. We therefore believe that a limited excision of the ACJ is adequate and a reliable alternative to conventional techniques.
The abstracts were prepared by Mr Roger Emery. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the British Orthopaedic Association, Royal College of Surgeons, 35-43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN
