Coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction using a gracilis tendon graft for acute type-III acromioclavicular dislocation.

PURPOSE: To review the functional and radiological results of patients after coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction.

METHODS: Five patients aged 21 to 50 (mean, 37) years with acute Rockwood type-III acromioclavicular dislocation underwent coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction with autogenous gracilis tendon grafts. Patients were either active in sports or heavy manual workers. Assessments on shoulder function (using the Constant score), wound size, pain (using a visual analogue scale), and reduction (using radiographs of both acromioclavicular joints) were made.

RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 26 (range, 15-43) months; the mean time to return to work or sports was 14 (range, 12-20) weeks. The mean Constant score was 94 (range, 90-98). The mean donor-site scar size was 3 cm and the mean pain score was 0. No major complication or donor-site morbidity was noted. There was one subluxation.

CONCLUSION: Coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction using an autogenous gracilis tendon graft was safe in physically active patients having acute type-III acromioclavicular dislocation.