Arthroscopic stabilization of Neer type 2 fracture of the distal part of the clavicle

Abstract

With regard to the anatomic basis of Neer type 2 fractures of the distal part of the clavicle, a clavicle fracture is associated with a coracoclavicular conoid ligament disruption. We describe an arthroscopic-assisted surgical procedure to stabilize the fracture and reconstruct the ligament. Surgery is performed with the patient in the beach-chair position. Through a 2-cm incision perpendicular to the direction of the fracture, we perform suturing around the fracture. During the arthroscopic procedure, the coracoid process is exposed by opening the rotator interval and the medial part of the capsule. The knee of the coracoid process should be exposed via an anterolateral portal for the arthroscope. Then, by use of an acromioclavicular joint stabilization device from Arthrex (Naples, FL), a hole is placed through the knee of the coracoid process. FiberTape suture (Arthrex) is passed around the clavicle and through the knee of the coracoid process. The intra-articular sutures are pulled out through the upper incision on top of the clavicle. Tightening of the 2 knots is performed at the same time. This arthroscopic-assisted surgery allows for total recovery of shoulder function, without the inconvenience of device migration or acromioclavicular joint lesions reported with other procedures.