Symptomatic Nonunion of the Coracoid Process Following Osteosynthesis Using a Suture Button for Coracoid Process and Distal Clavicle Fracture: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND Coracoid process fractures are uncommon and are often complicated by many types of shoulder girdle injuries. Previous reports have shown that osteosynthesis for isolated coracoid process fractures results in favorable outcomes and high bone union rates. However, owing to the rarity of coracoid process fractures combined with distal clavicle fractures, there are limited data to guide treatment strategies. We report a case of symptomatic nonunion despite performing osteosynthesis for fractures of the coracoid process and distal clavicle. CASE REPORT A 60-year-old man presented with left shoulder pain after falling from the back of a truck. Radiography and computed tomography (CT) findings revealed fractures of the left distal clavicle and coracoid process. We performed plate and costoclavicular fixation using a suture button for the distal clavicle fracture and cannulated cancellous screw fixation for the coracoid process fracture. However, the patient experienced severe pain around the coracoid and had limited shoulder range of motion 1 year postoperatively. CT revealed nonunion of the coracoid process, prompting a recommendation for surgery. However, despite severe persistent functional impairment, the patient refused surgery 1.5 years postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS This case suggests the potential for symptomatic nonunion of the coracoid process when using a suture-button device for a distal clavicle fracture. To prevent postoperative nonunion of the coracoid process, postoperative CT evaluation is necessary. If a symptomatic delayed bone union of coracoid process is observed, considering early removal of the suture button is recommended.

Treatment of coracoid process fractures combined with acromioclavicular joint dislocation using clavicular hook plate.

BACKGROUND: The injury mechanism of acromioclavicular (AC) dislocation combined with coracoid process (CP) fracture is not clear, and there is no consensus on its treatment. This study was performed to evaluate the diagnosis of CP fractures combined with AC dislocation and the effectiveness of operative treatment using a clavicular hook plate. METHODS: Eighteen patients with CP fractures combined with AC dislocation were treated with a clavicular hook plate from May 2012 to June 2021. The patients comprised 10 male and 8 female patients with an average age of 38 years (range, 16-54 years). The injury was caused by falling in 15 patients, traffic accidents in 2 patients, and falling from a height in 1 patient. The Eyres type of CP fracture was type II in 1 patient, type III in 11 patients, type IV in 3 patients, and type V in 3 patients. The Ogawa type of CP fracture was type I in 17 patients and type II in 1 patient. The Rockwood type of AC dislocation was type V in 1 patient, variation type III in 15 patients, and variation type V in 2 patients. The interval from injury to the operation was 3 days (range, 1-7 days). Postoperative complications and CP fracture healing were recorded. Functional assessment at the last follow-up was performed by an independent reviewer using the Constant score and visual analog scale score. RESULTS: All 18 patients were followed up for a mean period of 49 months (range, 12-123 months). Nine patients had acromion osteolysis and 3 patients had CP fracture nonunion (Eyres type II, III, and V in 1 patient each); however, no patients developed shoulder pain, incision infection, limitation of shoulder movement, clinical symptoms of subcoracoid impingement, or AC dislocation relapse. At the last follow-up, the mean Constant score was 99 (range, 94-100). CONCLUSIONS: The possibility of CP fracture should be considered in patients with AC dislocation to avoid a missed diagnosis. Fixation with a clavicular hook plate is a feasible treatment for CP fracture combined with AC dislocation and provides a satisfactory outcome. CP fracture healing may be related to the fracture morphology.

Coracoid Process Fractures of the Scapula Treated by Baseplate Three-Column Glenoid Fixation: A Retrospective Study of 24 Patients.

BACKGROUND This retrospective study from a single center aimed to evaluate 24 patients with coracoid process fractures of the scapula treated by baseplate three-column glenoid fixation of the 3 columns attached to the glenoid, or the scapula-glenoid construct, which includes the base of the coracoid, the scapular spine, and the lateral/scapular pillar. MATERIAL AND METHODS Twenty-four patients with 24 coracoid process fractures were treated from March 2018 to August 2020 in our hospital; 11 cases were treated with the modified technique and 13 with the conventional technique. The patients had comparable screw length, bone union time, fracture reduction, and Constant-Murley shoulder outcome scores. The significant differences between variables were tested using the t test and Fisher's exact test, while bone union and reduction position were confirmed with X-ray and CT scans. The average follow-up time was 12 months. RESULTS The mean Constant-Murley shoulder outcome score and fracture reduction did not differ significantly (P>0.05), and all patients returned to their previous occupations and levels of activity, with no loss of reduction or surgical revision at the last follow-up. Bone union time for the modified group was longer than that of the conventional group (P<0.05). However, 1 patient had a screw broken at 5 months from heavy manual labor and showed delayed union at 8 months. The lengths of the coracoid process screws in the modified group were longer than in the conventional group (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS The findings from this retrospective study showed that baseplate three-column glenoid fixation of the coracoid process was a good surgical option for coracoid process fractures.

A review of the coracoclavicular joint: Description, etiology, and clinical significance.

The coracoclavicular joint (CCJ) is a synovial joint that forms between the conoid tubercle of the clavicle and the coracoid process of the scapula in approximately 2.5% of the population. The number of bilateral to unilateral cases is almost equal. The number of right-sided and left-sided cases is also almost equal. It is found in both males and females but most often in male adults. Very few cases have been identified in juveniles. Found in populations all over the world, the highest frequencies of CCJ are in Asia. The etiology is unknown but it is most likely caused by metaplastic change of the trapezoid and surrounding tissue due to compression and friction of the coracoacromial ligament between the clavicle and coracoid process. Typically asymptomatic, but if so, the most common complaint is anterior should pain exacerbated by extreme abduction. Successful treatment includes steroid injection and surgical excision.

The X-Mas Box Osteosuture: A New Technique for Coracoid Process Fracture.

A fracture of the tip of the coracoid is a rare but challenging fracture. A surgical indication is required in case of a displaced fracture. Screws and suture anchors often do not offer a reliable fixation in the case of very small fragments. We describe our hardwareless technique that consists of an osteosuture with a 90-degree suture threads configuration that we called the x-mas box technique. This procedure is cost-effective and it provides stable fixation and low complications rate.

Bone tunnel placement influences shear stresses at the coracoid process after coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction: a finite element study and radiological analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Coracoid fractures after arthroscopic treatment of acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations lead to poor clinical outcomes. In this study, different configurations of bone tunnels in the lateral clavicle and coracoid were examined concerning the amount of stress induced in the coracoid. METHODS: An authentic 3D finite element model of an ac joint was established. Three 2.4 mm bone tunnels were inserted in the lateral clavicle, which were situated above, medially and laterally of the coracoid. Then, two 2.4 mm bone tunnels were inserted in the latter, each simulating a proximal and a distal suture button position. Von Mises stress analyses were performed to evaluate the amount of stress caused in the coracoid process by the different configurations. Then, a clinical series of radiographs was examined, the placement of the clavicle drill hole was analyzed and the number of dangerous configurations was recorded. RESULTS: The safest configuration was a proximal tunnel in the coracoid combined with a lateral bone tunnel in the clavicle, leading to an oblique traction at the coracoid. A distal bone tunnel in the coracoid and perpendicular traction as well as a proximal tunnel in the coracoid with medial traction caused the highest stresses. Anatomical placement of the clavicle drill hole does lead to configurations with smaller stresses. CONCLUSION: The bone tunnel placement with the smallest amount of shear stresses was found when the traction of the suture button was directed slightly lateral, towards the AC joint. Anatomical placement of the clavicle drill hole alone was not sufficient in preventing dangerous configurations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Controlled laboratory study.

Anterior Shoulder Dislocation with Concomitant Fracture of processus coracoideus and tuberculum majus humeri - Case Report.

Glenohumeral joint is the most frequently dislocated joint of the human body. Concomitant fractures of the coracoid process and tuberculum majus in humeral dislocation of the shoulder joint are rarely described. Concomitant fractures are results of a significant contraction of the surrounding muscles and rotator cuff during a cerebral paroxysm. Due to the small number of cases, the treatment of such injuries is not simple and it is based on an algorithm for treatment of isolated injuries of these anatomical structures. In this case report, we describe a concomitant fracture of the coracoid process and tuberculum majus during an anterior shoulder dislocation in 25-year-old patient after an epileptic seizure. The injury was treated in our department surgically, with a good functional result. The absolute Constant score for the operated arm is 95 points, the relative Constant score is 97%, DASH score 0, VAS score 0.

The Fate of Coracoid Graft after Latarjet Procedure: Arthroscopic and Open Findings of Graft Union and Glenoid Remodelling.

Successful Latarjet procedures depend on many factors including graft union and subsequent restoration of the glenoid surface. Coracoid graft union has been studied; however, remodelling of the glenoid has not been studied extensively. We present two Latarjet cases in which coracoid screws were removed due to hardware issues, at 12 months postoperatively in one patient and at six months in another. We share our observations on the coracoid graft and the restoration of the glenoid shape. Prior to screw removal, done by a mini-open approach, we performed arthroscopic examination of the glenohumeral joint in both patients. Our arthroscopic and open findings with respect to graft union, screw prominence, and glenoid remodelling, are presented. Both cases showed good union of the coracoid graft and restoration of the native glenoid shape. Key Words: Shoulder dislocation, Surgery, Complications, Coracoid process.

Computed Tomography-Based Determination of the Optimal Locations of Bone Tunnels for Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction.

OBJECTIVE: An agreement has not been reached on optimal locations of bone tunnels for coracoclavicular ligament (CCL) reconstruction for acromioclavicular joint dislocation (ACD). This study aims to identify the convergence point (cP) between the coracoid process and clavicle in the Chinese population to assist surgeons in reconstructing the CCL for ACD. METHODS: From 2014 to 2020, 483 CT scans of the shoulders of 270 male and 213 female patients (247 right and 236 left shoulders) were collected and studied retrospectively. By overlapping the images of the transverse plane of the coracoid process and the clavicle, points a and b, and the midpoint ab (cP) were determined. Then, a series of parameters through point cP in the transverse and sagittal planes were measured. In the transverse plane this included the distance from point cP to the tip of the coracoid process (cP-cor),the distance between the medial and lateral margins of the coracoid process through point cP (Med-lat cor), the distance from point cP to the acromioclavicular joint (cP-ac), and the distance between the anteroposterior margin of the clavicle through point cP (Ap-clav). In the sagittal plane, this included the craniocaudal segment of the coracoid process (Cc-cor), and the craniocaudal segment of the clavicle (Cc-clav). The sex and side differences of these measurements were also analyzed by two radiologists. RESULTS: Based on the following measurements, point cP was determined. For male patients, the cP-cor was 28.02 ± 3.43 mm, Med-lat cor was 22.78 ± 2.80 mm, Cc-cor was 15.11 ± 2.13 mm, cP-ac was 29.24 ± 3.84 mm, Ap-clav was 18.27 ± 2.46 mm, and Cc-clav was 10.09 ± 1.56 mm. For female patients, the cP-cor was 25.20 ± 3.26 mm, Med-lat cor was 20.21 ± 2.97 mm, Cc-cor was 13.03 ± 1.77 mm, cP-ac was 26.66 ± 3.45 mm, Ap-clav was 16.10 ± 2.30 mm, and Cc-clav was 8.91 ± 1.40 mm. All the measurements of female patients were lower than those of male patients (p < 0.01). Between sides, only cP-ac of the left shoulders was significantly lower than those of the right shoulders (p < 0.05), with no significant differences in other parameters between sides (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of this study identified the locations of bone tunnel-cP in the coracoid process and clavicle for the CCL reconstruction in ACD. Moreover, the findings indicated that surgeons should be more cautious in operating on female patients and that the cP-ac of left shoulders should be set lower than that of right shoulders.

[Short-term effectiveness of modified arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with double EndoButtons for recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation].

Objective: To evaluate the short-term effectiveness of modified arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with double EndoButtons for recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation. Methods: Between January 2019 and November 2020, 36 patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation were treated by modified arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with double EndoButtons. There were 26 males and 10 females, with an average age of 27.8 years (range, 18-36 years). The number of shoulder dislocations ranged from 3 to 12 times, with an average of 6.5 times. The disease duration ranged from 5 to 36 months, with an average of 16.2 months. Preoperative shoulder fear test was positive, and the Beighton score of joint relaxation was 0-4, with an average of 1.3. Imaging examination showed that the defect width of the ipsilateral glenoid bone was 16%-28%, with an average of 21.5%. Postoperative complications, recurrent dislocation, subluxation, and instability of shoulder joint were recorded. Shoulder range of motion was examined, including forward flexion, external rotation at side, external rotation at 90° abduction, and internal rotation. Shoulder joint function was evaluated by Walch-Duplay score, American Association for Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Score (ASES), and ROWE score. X-ray film and CT images were taken to observe the shaping of coracoid process graft. Results: All incisions healed by first intention, and no vascular or nerve injury occurred. All patients were followed up 12-28 months, with an average of 19.9 months. During follow-up, no shoulder dislocation recurred, and shoulder fear test was negative. At last follow-up, there was no significant difference in shoulder forward flexion, external rotation at side, external rotation at 90° abduction, and internal rotation when compared with preoperative values (P>0.05). The Walch-Duplay score, ASES score, and ROWE score of shoulder function significantly improved (P<0.05). Postoperative imaging examination showed that coracoid process graft was at the same level with the glenoid in 33 cases (91.7%), medial in 1 case (2.8%), and lateral in 2 cases (5.6%); the center of coracoid process graft was mainly located between 3 to 5 o'clock in 33 cases (91.7%), higher than 3 o'clock in 1 case (2.8%), and lower than 5 o'clock in 2 cases (5.6%). There was no obvious glenohumeral joint degeneration during follow-up, and the coracoid process graft gradually formed concentric circles with the humeral head. Conclusion: The modified arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with double EndoButtons can effectively treat recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation, and the short-term effectiveness is satisfactory, and the position of coracoid process graft is accurate.

Comparison of two coracoid process transfer techniques on stress shielding using three-dimensional finite-element model.

BACKGROUND: We created patient-based 3D finite-element (FE) models that simulate the congruent-arc Latarjet (CAL) and traditional Latarjet (TL) procedures and then compared their stress distribution patterns with different arm positions and glenoid defects. METHODS: The computed tomography data of 10 adult patients (9 men and 1 woman, ages: 18-50 years) were used to develop the 3D FE glenohumeral joint models. Twenty-five and 35% bony defects were created on the anterior glenoid rim, and the coracoid process was transferred flush with the glenoid by the traditional and congruent-arc techniques using two half-threaded screws. A load was applied to the greater tuberosity toward the center of the glenoid, and a tensile force (20 N) was applied to the coracoid tip along the direction of the conjoint tendon. The distribution patterns of the von Mises stress in the traditional and congruent-arc Latarjet techniques were compared. RESULTS: The mean von Mises on the graft was significantly greater for the TL technique than for the CAL. While the von Mises stress was greater in the distal medial part of the graft in the TL models, a higher stress concentration was observed in the distal lateral edge of the coracoid graft in the CAL models. The proximal medial part of the graft exhibited significantly lower von Mises stress than the distal medial part when compared according to technique, defect size, and arm position. Increasing the glenoid defect from 25 to 35% resulted in a significant increase in stress on the lateral side of the graft in both models. CONCLUSION: The stress distribution patterns and stress magnitude of the coracoid grafts differed according to the procedure. Due to placing less stress on the proximal-medial part of the graft, the CAL technique may lead to insufficient stimulation for bone formation at the graft-glenoid interface, resulting in a higher incidence of graft osteolysis. Clinical relevance The CAL technique may lead to a higher incidence of graft osteolysis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Basic Science Study; Computer Modeling.

Relationships among Coracobrachialis, Biceps Brachii, and Pectoralis Minor Muscles and Their Correlation with Bifurcated Coracoid Process.

The aim of this study is to demonstrate the relationship between the proximal attachment of the coracobrachialis muscle and the short head of the biceps brachii and the distal attachment of the pectoralis minor. Their correlation with the bifurcated coracoid process (CP) will be also assessed. On the basis of these observations, a new classification of structures attached to the coracoid process is proposed. Classical anatomical dissection was performed on one hundred forty-five upper limbs. Three types of relationship between the coracobrachialis muscle and the short head of the biceps brachii were observed in the cadavers. In type I (occurring in 54%), the coracobrachialis and the short head of the biceps brachii created a common junction attached to a single CP. Type II was divided into two subtypes (a and b). Subtype IIa (frequency 10%) was represented by independent proximal attachments of the short head of the biceps brachii and the coracobrachialis muscles to the CP. In subtype IIb (frequency 5%), the coracobrachialis muscle was two-headed (the first head located under the second) and not connected to the short head of the biceps brachii; all heads were attached to a single CP. Type III (frequency 31%) was characterized by a two-headed coracobrachialis muscle, the first head originating from a bifurcated CP laterally to the short head of the biceps brachii and the second medially to this structure. Different variations connected with the mentioned structures could be problematic for surgeons during operations, so detailed knowledge of them could contribute to more efficient procedures.

Morphology of the coracoid process as a predictor of articular-side tear at the upper border of the subscapularis.

BACKGROUND: Articular-side tear at the upper border of the subscapularis (SSC-AST) is often detected during shoulder arthroscopic surgery, although its exact pathology remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between various characteristics of the coracoid process, including classification of the morphology of the coracoid process tip, and the presence of SSC-AST. METHODS: This retrospective, case-controlled study included patients who underwent arthroscopic subacromial decompression with or without rotator cuff repair between January 2018 and September 2021. A total of 130 shoulders in 124 patients, including 77 male and 53 female shoulders (mean age at surgery, 64 years [range, 39-88 years]), were included in this study. Three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography examination was performed preoperatively, and the following indices were measured: coracoid proximal length, coracoid distal length, coracoid angle, coracoglenoid angle, offset of the coracoid process and glenoid (anterior, lateral, and superior offset), and coracoid base angle. The morphology of the tip of the coracoid process was classified into 3 types according to 3D reconstructed views: flat type, round type, and beak type. The presence of SSC-AST was intraoperatively evaluated arthroscopically via a posterior glenohumeral portal. Morphologic risk factors for SSC-AST were evaluated between SSC-AST cases (group T) and non-SSC-AST cases (group N) by multivariable logistic analysis. In addition, the correlation between the incidence of SSC-AST and classification of the tip of the coracoid process was analyzed. RESULTS: SSC-AST was present in 53 shoulders (40.8%). Group T patients were significantly older than group N patients (68.4 ± 10.0 years vs. 61.5 ± 11.8 years, P < .001). No sex difference was detected between the 2 groups (28 male and 25 female shoulders in group T vs. 49 male and 28 female shoulders in group N, P = .28). Multivariate analysis of morphologic parameters between the 2 groups detected a smaller superior offset as a risk factor for SSC-AST (odds ratio, 0.91; 95% confidence interval, 0.84-0.98; P = .01). No significant differences were found in the other parameters. Regarding classification of the tip of the coracoid process, round- and beak-type coracoid tips had a significantly higher rate of SSC-AST than flat-type tips (flat type, 21.8%; round type, 64.7%; and beak type, 46.3%) (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Evaluation of the correlation between the morphology of the coracoid process on 3D computed tomography and the presence of SSC-AST visualized during arthroscopy indicated a significant association between SSC-AST and the morphology of the coracoid process.

Comparison of the Coracoid, Distal Clavicle, and Scapular Spine for Autograft Augmentation of Glenoid Bone Loss: A Radiologic and Cadaveric Assessment.

BACKGROUND: Glenohumeral instability caused by bone loss requires adequate bony restoration for successful surgical stabilization. Coracoid transfer has been the gold standard bone graft; however, it has high complication rates. Alternative autologous free bone grafts, which include the distal clavicle and scapular spine, have been suggested. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the percentage of glenoid bone loss (GBL) restored via coracoid, distal clavicle, and scapular spine bone grafts using a patient cohort and a cadaveric evaluation. METHODS: Autologous bone graft dimensions from a traditional Latarjet, congruent arc Latarjet, distal clavicle, and scapular spine were measured in a 2-part study using 52 computed tomography (CT) scans and 10 unmatched cadaveric specimens. The amount of GBL restored using each graft was calculated by comparing the graft thickness with the glenoid diameter. RESULTS: Using CT measurements, we found the mean percentage of glenoid restoration for each graft was 49.5% ± 6.7% (traditional Latarjet), 45.1% ± 4.9% (congruent arc Latarjet), 42.2% ± 7.7% (distal clavicle), and 26.2% ± 8.1% (scapular spine). Using cadaveric measurements, we found the mean percentage of glenoid restoration for each graft was 40.2% ± 5.0% (traditional Latarjet), 53.4% ± 4.7% (congruent arc Latarjet), 45.6% ± 8.4% (distal clavicle), and 28.2% ± 7.7% (scapular spine). With 10% GBL, 100% of the coracoid and distal clavicle grafts, as well as 88% of scapular spine grafts, could restore the defect (P < .001). With 20% GBL, 100% of the coracoid and distal clavicle grafts but only 66% of scapular spine grafts could restore the defect (P < .001). With 30% GBL, 100% of coracoid grafts, 98% of distal clavicle grafts, and 28% of scapular spine grafts could restore the defect (P < .001). With 40% GBL, a significant difference was identified (P = .001), as most coracoid grafts still provided adequate restoration (congruent arc Latarjet, 82.7%; traditional Latarjet, 76.9%), but distal clavicle grafts were markedly reduced, with only 51.9% of grafts maintaining sufficient dimensions. CONCLUSIONS: The coracoid and distal clavicle grafts reliably restored up to 30% GBL in nearly all patients. The coracoid was the only graft that could reliably restore up to 40% GBL. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: With "subcritical" GBL (>13.5%), all autologous bone grafts can be used to adequately restore the bony defect. However, with "critical" GBL (≥20%), only the coracoid and distal clavicle can reliably restore the bony defect.

Classification and morphological parameters of the coracoid process in Chinese population.

INTRODUCTION: The coracoid process is an important anatomical structure of the scapula, which can be used as a landmark in the diagnosis and treatment of scapula related diseases, such as acromioclavicular joint dislocation, anterior shoulder instability, and coracoid fractures. The aim of this study was to classify the coracoid process according to morphology and to measure the morphological parameters of the coracoid process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 377 dry and intact scapulae were collected and classified in terms of the connection between the shape of coracoid process and common things in life. The anatomical morphology and the position related to acromion and glenoid socket of the coracoid process were measured in each type by three independent researchers with a digital caliper. The measurements were averaged and recorded. RESULTS: Based on obvious morphological features, five specific types of the coracoid process were described: Type I, Vertical 8-shape; Type II, Long stick shape; Type III, Short stick shape; Type IV, Water drop shape, and Type V, Wedge shape. Type I (30%) and Type III (29%) were more prevalent in China. The tip width of the coracoid process of Type IV was the shortest and significantly different compared to the other types (p <.05), contrary to the longest in Type V. The tip thickness of the coracoid process of Type I was the shortest and significantly different from the other types (p <.05). CONCLUSIONS: The coracoid process was classified into five types based on obvious morphological features. Knowing of morphological classification and anatomical parameters of different types of the coracoid process, to some extent, may be helpful to diagnose and treat the shoulder joint disease, such as acromioclavicular joint dislocation, anterior shoulder instability, and coracoid fractures, and to theoretically reduce postoperative complications.

The anatomy and variation of the coracoid attachment of the subclavius muscle in humans.

The functions of the subclavius muscle (SM) are described as stabilization of the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) and resisting elevation of the lateral end of the clavicle. During systematic cadaveric dissections, we observed additional fibrous structures, previously described as variants of the anatomy, extending from the SM and inserting into the coracoid process (CP). Due to the high incidence of these structures in our dissections, we hypothesized that the attachment at the CP is more common than appreciated and that, as a corollary, the function of the SM was (or has been) more complex than simply depressing the clavicle and generating stability at the SCJ. For our investigation, fifty-two upper extremities of 26 human cadavers were dissected. The SM was demonstrated from costal to clavicular attachment. We documented additional fibrous structures apparently derived from the SM inserting into the CP. Measurements of the length of the SM, the length of its attachment, and the length of the clavicle were taken in situ, with the specimens supine and the upper extremity in the anatomical position. Variations in the anatomy of the SM and its coracoidal attachment were recorded, and potential correlations were investigated. For documentation purposes photographs and video sequences of passive motion of the shoulder girdle of the specimens were taken. In 49 of the 52 specimens we found additional fibrous structures passing from the SM to the CP. We differentiated three types: (1) a strong cord-like structure; (2) a small or thin cord-like structure or structures; and (3) a planar twisted sheet-like structure. The SM and its extension to the CP appears to contribute to a 'functional scapular suspension system' together with the other muscles enveloped by the clavipectoral fascia (pectoralis minor, coracobrachialis and the short head of the biceps brachii). This system assists in the control of the position of the scapula in relation to the thorax, particularly in elevated positions of the upper extremity. We speculate that the differentiation of the fibrous structure depends on the functional demands of the individual. Level of Evidence: Basic science study.

Transfer of the coracoid and conjoined tendon for failed, unstable, short clavicle following excessive outer clavicle resection.

Nineteen patients presented with an unsightly deformity of the shoulder, pain or discomfort at the medial scapular border, pseudo nonparalytic scapular winging, and thoracic outlet symptoms after excessive resection of the clavicle for either complete acromioclavicular separation or displaced fracture of the outer clavicle, which allows the scapula and shoulder to rotate anteriorly and inferiorly on the chest creating traction on the medial scapular muscles and the brachial plexus resulting in pseudo nonparalytic winging and thoracic outlet symptoms. RESULTS: All underwent transfer of the coracoid process with the attached conjoined tendon to the end of the clavicle, restoring length and alignment. Eighteen patients were evaluated at a mean of 13.3 years. Seventeen had resolution of symptoms, restored alignment of the clavicle with the shoulder, improved appearance, healed transfer, and were pleased with the outcome. One patient was lost to follow-up but was considered a failure at his last visit. In a second patient, the transfer healed in a tilted position and the patient was dissatisfied with the appearance but otherwise had resolution of his symptoms. The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Outcome Score improved from 53.2 preoperatively to 87.4 postoperatively (P < .02). CONCLUSION: This is the first report of using this transfer to restore length and alignment of an excessively short, unstable clavicle. The transfer succeeded in improving the appearance and symptoms in this complication of an excessively short, unstable clavicle.

The base of coracoid process as a reference for glenoid reconstruction in primary or revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty: CT-based anatomical study.

INTRODUCTION: Joint replacement surgery as a treatment for glenohumeral arthritis with glenoid bone loss is challenging. The aim of this study is to offer an anatomical orientation for glenoid reconstruction. METHODS: In this study, we measured size, inclination and version of the glenoid surface, as well as the distance between the articular line of the glenoid, base of the coracoid process, and acromion using computer tomographic (CT) imaging of 131 study participants aged 19-88 years in the period of 2010-2013. RESULTS: We measured a mean distance of 6.5 ± 0.2 mm from the glenoid articular line to the base of the coracoid process in the transverse CT plane. Body height has shown no significant impact on the glenoid morphology. We observed significant differences between males and females: The glenoid appeared to be located 5.2 ± 0.9 mm higher and the humeral head was 4.5 ± 0.7 mm larger in male subjects compared with females (r = .699; p < .01). CONCLUSION: In our study, the base of the coracoid offers an anatomical reference during reconstruction of the glenoid in primary and revision shoulder arthroplasty. As only 2D-CT imaging allows for accurate assessment of glenoid bone defects, we consider conventional X-ray imaging insufficient for proper preoperative planning before shoulder arthroplasty. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.