Mechanical Behavior of the Coracoclavicular Ligament and Novel Anatomic Reconstruction Complexes

INTRODUCTION Acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations are common injuries seen in athletes or laborers in which the AC capsule and coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments are both ruptured [1]. Both surgical and conservative treatments have similar outcomes [2], with both treatments having no guidelines for rehabilitation. The CC ligaments, trapezoid and conoid, have greater structural properties than current surgical treatments [3,4], which replace the multi-bundle orientation of the CC ligaments with a single orientation [5]. Recent studies have also reported salvage of failed CC ligament repairs using tendon allografts [6]. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the mechanical behavior of the CC ligament and novel anatomic reconstruction complexes. This study can provide guidance to improve the outcome of surgical treatment and allow early mobility, accelerated rehabilitation and earlier return to sports for high level athletes or return to work for heavy laborers.