Abstract

The acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) is a diarthrodial joint which is stabilized by static and dynamic stabilizers. Acromioclavicular (AC) ligaments and the coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments (trapezoid and conoid) and the coracoacromial ligament make up the static stabilizers. The dynamic stabilizers are the deltoid and trapezius muscles. Theprinciples of various surgical techniques involve reduction of the AC joint and were historically classified into two groups: those that focus on primary healing of the CC ligaments and those meant to reconstruct the CC ligaments. Ligament reconstruction must have sufficient immediate stability to prevent acute redisplacement or be protected temporarily until the region heals. The biomechanical basis for reconstructing the CC ligaments in the management of acromioclavicular type 3 injuries is discussed.