Arthroscopic Reconstruction of the Acromioclavicular Joint Using Semitendinosus Allograft

The purpose of this report is to describe an arthroscopic technique using a semitendinosus allograft to reconstruct chronic grade III, IV, or V acromioclavicular joint separations. Indications for arthroscopic surgery include pain, functional limitation, severe cosmetic deformity, and failure of nonoperative treatment. Twelve patients were managed by this technique during a 2-year period. All 12 were reevaluated 2 to 4 years postoperatively. Of the 12 patients, 10 had satisfactory to excellent results. Two patients lost reduction: 1 was subsequently repaired with an excellent result and 1 loss of approximately 5 mm of reduction with no consent for follow-up procedure at this time. There was a 25% complication rate. The arthroscopic technique for reconstruction of the dislocated acromioclavicular joint is still evolving but shows much promise for the future management of these problematic injuries.