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Study Design: Experimental study. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the vertebral body growth under distraction forces in immature pigs treated with growing rod (GR) technique. Summary Of Background Data: Distraction forces applied on growth plate of appendicular skeleton stimulate longitudinal growth. However, the effect of distraction forces on axial skeletal growth has not been fully investigated yet. Methods: Twelve 10-week-old domestic pigs were used in this experimental model to simulate GR technique. Four of them were lost during postoperative period because of deep wound infection. Cranially T12-L1 and caudally L4-L5 vertebrae were instrumented by pedicle screws bilaterally, while L2 and L3 were skipped. Distraction between pedicle screws was applied at index surgery. The rods were then lengthened twice in a month interval. All subjects were evaluated with anteroposterior and lateral spinal radiograph before surgery, after surgery, and at the final follow-up. The vertebral body heights of distracted segments (HD = L2 and L3) and control segments (HC = T9, T10 and T11) were measured. Average vertebral body heights and the increase percentage in the vertebral body heights were compared among control segments and distracted segments. Results: The preoperative vertebral body height was similar in 2 groups (preHC: 10.81 mm, n = 19, preHD: 11.27 mm, n = 16, P > 0.05). At the final follow-up, the average vertebral body height in distraction group was significantly higher than the control group (postHC: 17.03 mm, postHD: 18.58 mm, P < 0.05). The increase percentage in vertebral body height was higher in distracted segments, but there was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. Conclusion: The vertebral growth continues during GR instrumentation. Distraction forces might stimulate also apophyseal growth of axial skeleton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the correlation between microscopic degeneration in the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) and the apoptotic process. Methods: This study included 26 consecutive patients who had undergone arthroscopic biceps tenodesis or tenotomy for symptomatic LHBT with or without concomitant rotator cuff tears (RCTs). Histological examination of the specimens under a light microscope was conducted after staining with hematoxylin, eosin, and the Alcian blue. Histopathological changes were assessed using the original Bonar score and the modified Bonar score and then correlated with the expression of the subsequent apoptosis markers: activated caspase-3 (casp3), tumor protein p53 (p53), and B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2). Results: The mean original Bonar score was 8.65 (range 5-11), while the modified Bonar score was 7.61. There was no correlation between the original Bonar score and the age of the patients, but a positive correlation was found between the modified Bonar score and the age of the patients ( p = 0.0022). There was no correlation between the age of patients and the expression indexes of BCL-2 and casp3. However, the expression of the p53 index showed a positive correlation with patient aging ( p = 0.0441). Furthermore, there was no correlation observed between the expression of apoptotic indexes and both the original and modified Bonar scale. Conclusions: In LHB tendinopathy, the expression of apoptosis does not seem to directly correlate with the extent of degeneration, particularly in the late stages of tendinopathy. However, the transformations observed in collagen and ground substance were significantly associated with age, as well as tendinous tissue degeneration quantified according to modified Bonar score. The age of patients was also linked with the expression of the p53 index, as an increased apoptosis in the studied population.

Hypothesis: This study aimed to investigate the effects of cross education (CE) on rotator cuff (RC) muscle strength recovery and shoulder function in patients who underwent arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization surgery., Methods: Twenty-eight patients who underwent shoulder stabilization surgery were included in the study (age, 25 ± 6 years; body mass index, 24.8 ± 3.6 kg/m 2 ). The patients were randomly divided into either the CE group (n = 14) or the control group (n = 14). All patients received a standardized rehabilitation program until the end of the 12th postoperative week. The CE group also received isokinetic training of the nonoperative shoulder focusing on the RC muscles (twice a week, 3 sets of 10 repetitions). RC muscle strength was measured preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively using an isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/s and 180°/s angular velocities. Shoulder function was assessed with the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test and Y-Balance Test-Upper Quarter. Analyses of covariance were used for the statistical analyses., Results: At 6 months postoperatively, at 60°/s angular velocity, there was higher internal rotator strength in the CE group (P = .02) and similar external rotator strength (P = .62) between the groups. At 180°/s angular velocity, both internal rotator strength (P = .04) and external rotator strength (P = .02) were higher in the CE group. The Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (P = .47), Y-Balance Test-Upper Quarter (P = .95), and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (P = .12) scores were similar between the groups at 6 months after surgery., Conclusions: CE in the early period of postoperative rehabilitation following stabilization surgery improves RC strength recovery. However, it has no effect on functional outcomes. Integrating a CE program into the postoperative rehabilitation protocol may help to improve dynamic shoulder stability but not functional capacity., (Copyright © 2023 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To assess the quality of YouTube videos for patient education on shoulder dislocation., Methods: A standard YouTube search was performed in March 2023 using the terms "shoulder dislocation," "dislocated shoulder," and "glenohumeral joint dislocation" to identify eligible videos. Multiple scoring systems, including DISCERN (a validated tool for analyzing the quality of health information in consumer-targeted videos), Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Benchmark Criteria, and the Global Quality Score (GQS) were used to evaluate the videos. Video quality scores from various sources were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test for initial analysis, followed by Dunn's post-hoc test with Bonferroni correction, and the strength of relationship between variables was assessed using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient., Results: A total of 162 eligible videos were identified. The mean video duration was 11.38 ± 3.01 minutes, the median number of views was 653. Median number of days since upload was 1,972, the median view rate was 0.343, and median number of likes was 66.12. Based on the DISCERN classification, a substantial proportion of videos were classified as insufficient quality, with 19.4% as "very insufficient" and 42.1% as "insufficient"; 24.1% were classified as "average" quality, whereas only 13.1% were classified as "good" and 1.2% were "excellent." Videos from academic and professional sources showed a significant positive correlation with DISCERN scores (rho: +0.784, P < .001) and greater scores on all 4 scoring systems compared to health information websites., Conclusions: This study reveals that the majority of YouTube videos on shoulder dislocation lack sufficient quality for patient education, with content quality significantly influenced by the source., Clinical Relevance: Examining the accuracy of information that patients encounter on YouTube is essential for health care providers to direct individuals toward more reliable sources of information., Competing Interests: This work received open access funding from Università degli Studi Magna Graecia di Catanzaro within the CRUI-CARE Agreement. All authors (M.K., T.A., U.C.K., E.O., N.N.D., F.F., G.H.) report no conflicts of interest in the authorship and publication of this article. Full ICMJE author disclosure forms are available for this article online, as supplementary material., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Background: The substances present in cigarette smoke have a negative impact on cellular integrity and metabolism, can reduce blood flow to tissues, and can disrupt collagen synthesis. Ultimately this can lead to cell death, which clinically may result in impaired tendon healing and the onset of chronic tendinopathy. Within the shoulder, the exact association between the extent of apoptosis in the long head of the biceps (LHB) tendon and harmful factors like cigarette smoke remains unclear., Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the connection between smoking, the degree of apoptosis in LHB tendinopathy, and the long-term outcomes of surgical treatment., Design: Observational, retrospective study., Methods: This study included 22 consecutive patients who had undergone arthroscopic biceps tenodesis or tenotomy for symptomatic LHB tendinopathy with or without concomitant rotator cuff tears (RCT). The intra-articular LHB tendon remnants were histologically examined by measuring the level of expression of apoptotic cell markers such as BCL2, cleaved caspase 3, and p53. Pre- and postoperative clinical outcomes were analyzed by collecting patient report outcome measures such as the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain., Results: The smokers group had a mean pack-year history of 13.12 (SD = 9.94), mean number of cigarettes per day of 14.77 (SD = 4.64), and a mean smoking duration of 16.38 (SD = 10.1) years. Among the smoking indexes, the number of cigarettes per day showed a positive correlation with Snyder classification ( p = 0.0459, rho = 0.3682). Non-smokers and smokers did not show a statistically significant difference in the expression indexes of BCL2, cleaved caspase 3, or p53 ( p = 0.4216, p = 0.5449, p = 0.5613, respectively). However, the cleaved caspase 3 expression index showed a negative correlation with the severity of rotator cuff lesions in the total population ( p = 0.0193, rho = -0.4651)., Conclusions: While apoptotic processes in the LHB tendon were observed, no significant association was found between tobacco smoking, the extent of apoptosis, and clinical outcomes. However, the expression of the apoptotic marker cleaved caspase 3 correlated with the severity of rotator cuff pathology. Furthermore, active smoker status was associated with worse clinical outcomes in terms of pain following LHB tenodesis or tenotomy.

Objectives: To investigate the effects of low-load blood flow restriction (BFR) training on shoulder muscle thickness, rotator cuff (RC) strength, and shoulder symptoms in patients with RC tendinopathy., Design: A randomized, assessor-blinded, controlled trial., Settings: Physiotherapy clinic at a university., Participants: Twenty-eight patients were randomized into an 8-week (2 times/week) shoulder rehabilitation, that is, BFR or non-BFR group., Interventions: BFR training., Main Outcome Measures: (1) RC, deltoid, scapula retractor, and biceps muscle thicknesses and shoulder internal rotation (IR) and external rotation (ER) strengths. (2) Shoulder pain/function., Results: The BFR group had a greater increase in biceps muscle thickness ( P = 0.002) and shoulder IR strength at 60 degrees/s ( P = 0.040) than the non-BFR group. No differences between the 2 groups were observed in other measurements. Significant improvements in supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and scapula retractor muscle thicknesses and in shoulder ER and IR strengths were observed over time in both the groups (all P < 0 .05). Also, shoulder pain decreased and shoulder function increased over time in both the groups (all P < 0 .05)., Conclusions: Low-load BFR training resulted in a greater increase in biceps thickness and shoulder IR strength compared with the non-BFR group in patients with RC tendinopathy. However, there was no superiority of either exercise training regarding the RC, scapula retractor, deltoid muscle thicknesses, or improvements in shoulder ER strength and shoulder pain/function., Clinical Trial Registry Name and Registration Number: The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov named Blood Flow Restriction Training in Patients with Shoulder Pain and the registration number is NCT04333784., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Although exercise interventions are recommended in the management of subacromial pain syndrome (SPS), there is a lack of data regarding the exercises focusing on the principal biomechanical deficiencies that cause symptoms., Hypothesis: Utilizing progressive scapula retraction exercises (SRE) and glenohumeral rotation exercises (GRE) in the scapula stabilization program may lead to more reduction in symptoms and greater acromiohumeral distance (AHD) values., Study Design: A double-blind, randomized controlled trial., Level of Evidence: Level 2., Methods: A total of 33 patients were assigned randomly to either SRE or SRE+GRE. Both groups received a 12-week supervised rehabilitation program, including manual therapy and exercises (stretching and progressive scapula stabilization exercises). In addition, the SRE+GRE group performed GRE exercises at gradual elevation angles. From 12 to 24 weeks, patients performed exercise programs less frequently (3 times per week). Disability (shoulder pain and disability index [SPADI]), AHD (at 5 active abduction angles), pain intensity (visual analogue scale [VAS]), and patient satisfaction were recorded at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. A total of 16 healthy individuals were recruited as a control group to compare AHD values. Data were analyzed using mixed model analyses of variance., Results: A statistically significant group-by-time interaction was found for AHD values ( F 4,92 = 6.38; P = 0.001), a significant group-by-time interaction for SPADI-disability ( F 1,33 = 5.148; P = 0.01), SPADI-total ( F 1,32 = 4.172; P = 0.03), and for pain during activity ( F 2,62 = 3.204; P = 0.05). However, no significant group-by-time interaction for SPADI-pain (F 1,33 = 0.533; P = 0.48), for pain at rest (F 1,31 < 0.001; P = 0.99), and at night (F 1,32 = 2.166; P = 0.15). Yet, a significant time effect was observed., Conclusion: Progressive SRE and GRE in the scapula stabilization program lessens symptoms and improves AHD values in patients with SPS. Moreover, this program could preserve outcomes and further increase AHD when applied less frequently., Clinical Relevance: Utilizing SRE and GRE in the scapula stabilization program at gradual shoulder abduction angles provides better rehabilitation outcomes., Competing Interests: The authors report no potential conflicts of interest in the development and publication of this article.

Background: Although athletes are mostly allowed to return to play 6 months after shoulder stabilization surgery, there are inadequate data about their functional status during this period., Hypotheses: Performance tests would reveal insufficiency in the functional capacity of shoulder 6 months after stabilization surgery., Study Design: Prospective cohort study., Level of Evidence: Level 3., Methods: A total of 32 male athletes with arthroscopic anterior capsulolabral repair (AACR) were included in the study. Shoulder internal and external rotator (IR-ER) strength was assessed using isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/s and 180°/s angular velocities preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Shoulder function was assessed with closed kinetic chain upper extremity stability (CKCUES) test, Y balance test-upper quarter (YBT-UQ), and unilateral seated shot-put test (USSPT) at 6 months postoperation. Western Ontario shoulder instability index (WOSI) and Tampa scale of kinesiophobia (TSK) were used for the self-assessment of the shoulder. Mixed-model ANOVA was used to analyze the changes in the IR-ER strength on both shoulders. Limb symmetry index (LSI) was calculated for the IR-ER strength, YBT-UQ, and USSPT scores., Results: Shoulder IR strength was higher at 6 months postoperatively compared with preoperatively. The LSI was 76.4% and 76.6% for ER strength, and 94.2% and 94% for IR strength at 60°/s and 180°/s angular velocities, respectively, at the postoperative 6 month timepoint. The mean CKCUES test score was 21.8 ± 2.6 touches and the LSI was 94.7% for the YBT-UQ and 102.5% for the USSPT. WOSI ( P < 0.001) and TSK ( P = 0.001) scores were significantly lower at 6 months postoperatively., Conclusion: Functional status of the patients with shoulder stabilization surgery improved considerably 6 months after surgery, yet they did not fully recover function., Clinical Relevance: Exercise programs focusing on shoulder ER strength and shoulder performance should be emphasized after stabilization surgery., Competing Interests: The authors report no potential conflicts of interest in the development and publication of this article.

Objective: There is no consensus about the optimal frequency of patient visits during the rehabilitation program after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). This study aimed to investigate the short- and long-term effects of high-frequency (HF) and low-frequency (LF) visits of the patients in the first 12 weeks of rehabilitation after ARCR., Methods: This was a quasi-randomized study with 2 parallel groups. Forty-seven patients with ARCR were included in 2 different patient visit frequency protocols (HF = 23, LF = 24) in 12 weeks of postoperative rehabilitation. Patients in the HF group visited the clinic twice a week, whereas patients in the LF group visited once every 2 weeks for the first 6 weeks and once a week for the following 6 weeks. Both groups performed the same exercise protocol. Outcome measurements were pain and range of motion measured at baseline; at the 3rd, 5th, 8th, 12th, and 24th weeks; and at 1-year follow-up. Shoulder function was assessed at the 12th and 24th weeks and at 1-year follow-up with an American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score., Results: There was a significant group × time interaction in pain intensity during the activity between the groups. The activity pain intensity was higher in the LF group (4.2 points) at 8 weeks post surgery than in the HF group (2.7 points) (mean difference: 1.5 points, P < .05), whereas it was similar in both groups at other time periods. The interaction term was not significant between the groups for pain intensity during rest and night through the 1-year follow-up. No group × time interactions were observed in shoulder range of motion and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score over the postoperative period., Conclusion: Both rehabilitation programs at different visit frequencies after ARCR showed similar clinical results in the long term. A supervised, controlled rehabilitation program with LF visits in the first 12 weeks after surgery can be sufficient to achieve optimal clinical results and reduce rehabilitation-related costs after ARCR., Impact: This study highlights that LF treatment protocols under the supervision of the therapist can be adopted after the arthroscopic rotator cuff repair to achieve successful results while decreasing the treatment costs. Physical therapists should plan the treatment sessions efficiently for the compliance of the patients to the exercise treatment., Lay Summary: If you are a patient with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, a supervised, controlled rehabilitation program with low-frequency visits in the first 12 weeks after surgery could help you achieve the best outcome and help lower the costs of rehabilitation. A total of 3 visits in the first 6 weeks might be sufficient (once every 2 weeks). More frequent visits (1-2 visits a week) should happen 6 to 12 weeks after the surgery., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Physical Therapy Association. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Anterior shoulder dislocation is the most common form of joint instability in humans, usually resulting in soft-tissue injury to the glenohumeral capsuloligamentous and labral structures. Bipolar bone lesions in the form of fractures of the anterior glenoid rim and posterolateral humeral head are often associated with anterior shoulder dislocation and can be a cause or result of recurrent dislocations. Glenoid track assessment is an evolving concept that incorporates the pathomechanics of anterior shoulder instability into its management. Currently widely endorsed by orthopedic surgeons, this concept has ramifications for prognostication, treatment planning, and outcome assessment of anterior shoulder dislocation. The glenoid track is the contact zone between the humeral head and glenoid during shoulder motion from the neutral position to abduction and external rotation. Two key determinants of on-track or off-track status of a Hill-Sachs lesion (HSL) are the glenoid track width (GTW) and Hill-Sachs interval (HSI). If the GTW is less than the HSI, an HSL is off track. If the GTW is greater than the HSI, an HSL is on track. The authors focus on the rationale behind the glenoid track concept and explain stepwise assessment of the glenoid track at CT or MRI. Off-track to on-track conversion is a primary goal in stabilizing the shoulder with anterior instability. The key role that imaging plays in glenoid track assessment warrants radiologists' recognition of this concept along with its challenges and pitfalls and the production of relevant and actionable radiology reports for orthopedic surgeons-to the ultimate benefit of patients. © RSNA, 2023 Online supplemental material is available for this article. Quiz questions for this article are available through the Online Learning Center.

Background: There is very limited information about the changes in shoulder kinematics in patients with reverse shoulder arthroplasty. The aim of the study was to investigate the changes in the scapulohumeral rhythm and shoulder kinematics over time after the reverse shoulder procedure., Methods: Nineteen patients with reverse shoulder arthroplasty (age: 65.8 ± 10.3 years) were included to the study. During arm elevation in the sagittal and scapular planes, operated shoulder kinematics (humerothoracic elevation, glenohumeral elevation, scapulohumeral rhythm, and scapular rotations) were assessed using an electromagnetic tracking system at the postoperative 3rd, 6th, and 18th months. Asymptomatic shoulder kinematics were also assessed at the postoperative 18th month. Shoulder function was assessed using The Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand score at the postoperative 3rd, 6th, and 18th months., Findings: Maximum humerothoracic elevation increased from 98° to 109° over the postoperative period (p = 0.01). The scapulohumeral rhythm was similar on the operated and asymptomatic shoulders at the final follow-up (p = 0.11). Both the operated and asymptomatic shoulder demonstrated similar scapular kinematics at the postoperative 18th month (p > 0.05). The Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand score decreased over time in the postoperative period (p < 0.05)., Interpretation: Shoulder kinematics may be improved after reverse shoulder arthroplasty in the postoperative period. Focusing on scapular stabilization and deltoid muscle control in the postoperative rehabilitation program may enhance the shoulder kinematics and upper extremity function., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Periprosthetic shoulder infection (PSI) management proves to be challenging because of patient morbidity, poor outcomes and need for reoperations. Different surgical treatment methods have been defined; however, a prominent method could not be determined. This systematic review investigated the most recent articles about various treatment modalities used in the surgical treatment of PSI to find the most effective method in terms of infection clearance and function., Methods: The keywords were searched using PubMed (MEDLINE), ScienceDirect (Elsevier), and Google Scholar databases on September 30, 2022. Studies which report on operative treatment and have longer than 2-year follow-up were included in this review. Of the 555 studies in total, 16 were reviewed. The absence of symptomatic persistent infection (PI) during follow-up was regarded as a satisfactory outcome. Functional outcomes were analyzed according to the reported mean pooled Constant and Murley Score (CMS) and shoulder forward elevation degree (FE) for each treatment group., Results: A total of 339 patients (139 female, 197 male) with 342 shoulders from sixteen studies were included. The mean age of the patients was 67.5±3.8 years, mean follow-up duration was 53.3±19.5 months. In total, 217 shoulders were treated with two-stage revision, 59 were treated with one-stage revision, 37 were treated with definitive spacer, 23 were treated with debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR), and 6 were treated with resection arthroplasty. The PI rate in whole treatment groups was 9.9%. The PI rate was significantly highest in the DAIR group (30.4%, P=0.001), while there was no significant difference between other treatment groups (P=0.23). CMS and FE were available for 156 and 190 shoulders, respectively. CMS was highest in the one-stage revision group (63.4±5.9, P=0.001), and FE was highest in the DAIR group (119.3°±28.5°, P=0.001)., Conclusions: The revision surgeries (one-stage and two-stage revision) were more effective than the non-revision surgeries in functional outcomes. In terms of infection clearance, revision procedures were more successful. Surgeons should prefer revision methods over non-revision procedures when feasible., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: All authors have completed the ICMJE uniform disclosure form (available at https://aoj.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/aoj-22-48/coif). The series “Controversies in Shoulder Surgery and Algorithmic Approach to Decision Making” was commissioned by the editorial office without any funding or sponsorship. The authors have no other conflicts of interest to declare., (2023 Annals of Joint. All rights reserved.)

Case: A judo athlete presented with an open inferior shoulder dislocation that occurred during competition. Examination revealed a transection of the axillary artery and neuropraxia of the posterior cord. Neuropraxia was resolved within 2 weeks. The axillary artery was repaired with a femoral vein graft. He regained full strength, range of motion, and function at 8 months., Conclusion: Inferior glenohumeral dislocations are rare, and their management can be complicated by vascular and neurological injuries. We emphasize the importance of examination, diagnosis, and treatment of neurovascular pathologies to avoid catastrophic outcomes., Competing Interests: Disclosure: The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article (http://links.lww.com/JBJSCC/C83)., (Copyright © 2023 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.)

Complete loss of the meniscus inevitably leads to knee joint degeneration. Smoking is an important factor predicting poor outcome in orthopedics; however, data about its role in meniscus surgery are inconclusive. Smoking could be an important negative factor in isolated meniscus repair. The aim of this paper was to determine the influence of smoking on functional outcomes after isolated all-inside medial meniscus repair. This study included 50 consecutive patients with isolated, traumatic tear of the medial meniscus who underwent knee joint arthroscopy between 2016 and 2019. All-inside arthroscopic repair of the medial meniscus was performed in each case. All patients followed a uniform, postoperative rehabilitation protocol for 8 weeks. The follow-up examination was based on the functional scores at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. According to smoking status there were 17 smokers and 33 non-smokers. The mean number of cigarettes smoked per day was 11, for a mean of 7.4 years, and the mean pack-years index value was 4.9. There was no correlation between smoking years, number of cigarettes smoked per day, pack-years index, and functional outcomes. The arthroscopic inspection of the knee joints revealed cartilage lesions (≤IIº) in eight subjects, suggesting the secondary pathology to the meniscus tear. In this study, we found no evidence of an association between smoking indices and functional outcomes after all-inside repair of chronic medial meniscus tear. The nature of the chronic meniscal tear could be smoking-resistant owing to the poor blood supply to the sites in which these specific lesions occur.

Background: Peripheral nerve injuries are one of the most common and costly injuries especially in the young population. In this study, it is aimed to determine the histological role of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in nerve regeneration with an acute damage made on sciatic nerve in the rabbit model., Methods: We used 18 New Zealand rabbits (nine in control group and nine in experimental group). Each group was divided into two groups consisting of five rabbits planned for diameter measurement and four rabbits planned for spatial measurement. The sciatic nerve exploration in the right flank of each animal, full-thickness nerve damage, and then epineural repair was made by a single researcher. 10 µg/kg EGF was given to the repair area of the experimental group and five more EGF injections were given to the experimental group every other day postoperatively. In the control group, we used saline solution. Rabbits were observed for 8 weeks. During follow-up, two rabbits died. At the end of 8 weeks, the nerve tissue of each animal was evaluated histologically and morphologically., Results: In the experimental group consisting of five rabbits, the mean thickness of connective tissue (epineurium+ mesoneurium) was 156,867 µm; while, in the control group, the thickness was 25,170 µm. In the other groups, the numerical increase in epineurium and mesoneurium areas was detected in the EGF (+) group as a result of the comparative spatial measurements. Epineurium and mesoneurium enlargement was observed in the EGF-given group. Adipocyte and capillary increase was observed in connective tissue., Conclusion: EGF increases epineurium and mesoneurium diameters in peripheral connective tissue in acute peripheral nerve injury regeneration. However, further studies are needed to understand this effect clinically and physiologically.

Background: Numerous radiographic measurement methods related to rotator cuff tears (RCTs) have been described. The most widely used of these parameters is the critical shoulder angle (CSA) as measured via radiography. However, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements provide more accurate results than direct radiography., Purpose: To determine the relationship between anatomic shoulder parameters and RCT type via MRI scans., Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3., Methods: The data and physical examination notes of 389 patients were retrospectively analyzed, and 242 patients were included in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those with RCT (n = 127) and those without RCT (control group; n = 115). Using suitable MRI sections, the CSA, lateral acromial angle, acromial index, superior glenoid inclination, acromion-greater tuberosity impingement index, and acromiohumeral distance were compared between the RCT and control groups. The correlation of these shoulder parameters with the presence of RCT was investigated, and the predictive value of each parameter was examined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis., Results: There were significant positive relationships between the presence of RCT and CSA, acromial index, acromion-greater tuberosity impingement index, and superior glenoid inclination, with the strongest correlation belonging to CSA ( r = 0.716). There were also significant negative relationships between presence of RCT and lateral acromial angle ( r = -0.510) and acromiohumeral distance ( r = -0.222). The ROC analysis revealed CSA to be the best predictor for the presence of RCT (area under the ROC curve = 0.899)., Conclusion: The study outcomes showed that CSA as measured on MRI is the best predictor for determining the presence of RCTs. In patients with shoulder pain attributed to RCT, it may be helpful to examine the CSA on MRI., Competing Interests: The authors declared that there are no conflicts of interest in the authorship and publication of this contribution. AOSSM checks author disclosures against the Open Payments Database (OPD). AOSSM has not conducted an independent investigation on the OPD and disclaims any liability or responsibility relating thereto., (© The Author(s) 2022.)

We compared the strength of screw vs suture button fixation in the Latarjet procedure for shoulder dislocation through biomechanical testing in a cadaver model. Cadavers were assigned randomly to receive screw or suture button fixation (both groups, n=5). The anteroposterior radius of the glenoid was measured, and a bony defect was created on the anteroinferior rim of the glenoid, equal to 25% of the width of the anteroposterior radius of the glenoid surface. The coracoid process was transferred into the newly created bony defect of the glenoid and fixed with two 3.5-mm partially threaded cannulated screws or 2 surgical buttons. All samples underwent tensile testing in the anteroinferior direction. Statistical analysis was performed to compare mean forces at failure between groups (alpha=.05). The mean force at failure was higher in the screw group (295 N; range, 103-534 N) than in the suture button group (133 N; range, 74-270 N) ( P =.045). We found no difference between groups in ability to withstand a force of 150 N, which is the reported mean daily force threshold borne by the shoulder ( P =.52). Screw fixation withstood a higher failure load than suture button fixation, indicating that screw fixation is a biomechanically superior option in the Latarjet procedure. The fixation methods did not differ in their ability to withstand the mean force borne by the shoulder during activities of daily living; thus, suture button fixation should be considered as an option in the Latarjet procedure. [ Orthopedics . 2022;45(6):e321-e325.].

Background/aim: We have designed an adjustable bone plate (ABP) which allows bone shortening and lengthening after fixation, which is a property not present in any of the plate systems available today. The aim of the current study was to examine the new ABP's segmental bone transfer capability for the treatment of a segmental bone defect in an animal model., Materials and Methods: Five sheep had ABPs attached to 10 of their tibias and bone defects of 15 mm in size were created. The pinion mechanism was moved with a manual screwdriver at a rate of 1mm/day for 15 days starting 3 days postoperatively. The animals were euthanized 3 months postoperatively, and the defect site and the transferred segment were evaluated by radiological and histological examination., Results: The radiological results revealed successful transfers of 14.6 ± 1.2 mm of bone segment on all tibia defects without any complications. The histological evaluation showed new bone formation in both the extension and the docking sites. No rupture or breakage was observed within the plates., Conclusion: We have presented the potential of a new generation ABP for use in segmental bone transfer in an animal model as well as for future clinical applications., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest statement: The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest., (© TÜBİTAK.)

Background: Suboptimal positioning on Grashey view radiographs may limit the prognosticating potential of the critical shoulder angle (CSA) for shoulder disorders., Purpose: To investigate whether radiography optimized according to the latest research is reliable for measuring CSA in comparison with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) featuring 3-dimensional (3D) zero echo time (ZTE) sequencing, which accentuates the contrast between cortical bone and surrounding soft tissue with high fidelity., Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2., Methods: Patients with shoulder pain were prospectively and consecutively enrolled. All patients had Grashey view radiographs as well as 3.0-T MRI scans with isotropic 3D ZTE sequencing. Acceptable positioning on the radiographs was determined using the ratio of the transverse to longitudinal (RTL) diameter of the lateral glenoid outline; radiographs with an RTL ≥0.25 were repeated. Two observers independently measured the CSA on the radiographs and the coronal oblique reformatted ZTE images, the latter including verification of measurement points by cross-referencing against images from other planes. Reliability of measurements between observers and modalities was analyzed with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The paired-samples t test was used to compare the differences between imaging modalities., Results: Enrolled were 65 patients (35 female and 30 male; mean age, 40.2 years; range, 25-49 years). Radiographs with optimal positioning (RTL < 0.25) were attained after a mean of 1.6 exposures (range, 1-4); the mean RTL was 0.09 (range, 0-0.20). Interobserver agreement of CSA was excellent for radiographs (ICC = 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84-0.94) and good for ZTE MRI scans (ICC = 0.85; 95% CI, 0.71-0.92). Intermodality agreement of CSA between radiographs and ZTE MRI scans was moderate (ICC = 0.66; 95% CI, 0.48-0.73). The CSA was significantly different between an optimal radiograph (30.7° ± 4.3°) and ZTE MRI scan (31.8° ± 3.8) ( P = .005). Subgroup analysis revealed no significant differences in CSA measurement between ZTE MRI scans and Grashey view radiographs with an RTL of <0.1 ( P = .08)., Conclusion: CSA measurement on ZTE MRI scans with anatomic point cross-referencing was significantly different from that on Grashey view radiographs, even with optimal positioning, and radiography may necessitate more than 1 exposure. An RTL of <0.1 ensured reliability of radiographs when other standards of sufficient x-ray exposure were met., Competing Interests: The authors declared that there are no conflicts of interest in the authorship and publication of this contribution. AOSSM checks author disclosures against the Open Payments Database (OPD). AOSSM has not conducted an independent investigation on the OPD and disclaims any liability or responsibility relating thereto., (© The Author(s) 2022.)

Background: Shoulder pain is a common symptom for non-traumatic shoulder pathologies and affects 4.7-66.7% of entire population. Even with the latest technological advantages, palpation still is a cost and time efficient tool to evaluate the shoulder pathologies. Our aim was to investigate and compare palpation findings in different shoulder pathologies., Method: We used first assessments of impingement syndrome (IS) (n = 205), rotator cuff tear (RCT) (n = 185) and frozen shoulder (FS) (n = 210) patients who received treatment between 2010 and 2019 years. Two experienced physiotherapists palpated predefined points: long head of biceps brachii, pectoralis minor, lateral intermuscular septum, proximal tendons of extensor group. These points categorized into "proximal", "mid-proximal", "mid-distal", "distal", "irregular". We also grouped patients by their BMIs., Results: We found RCT patients had higher BMI than IS and FS patients (p < 0.001, p = 0.001); more tender intermuscular septum points and night pain than IS patients (p = 0.001, p = 0.003) and more extensor group proximal tendon points than IS and FS patients (p < 0.001, p = 0.001). "No tenderness" group had lesser resting pain than distal group (p < 0.001) and lesser activity and night pain than middle-proximal, middle-distal, and distal groups (all ps < 0.002). Distal group had higher night pain than middle-proximal group (p = 0.003). Morbidly obese patients had higher night pain than normal and overweight patients (p = 0.003 and p = 0.009)., Conclusions: Tender point distribution varies depending on the pathology with biceps brachii being the most common. RCT patients had higher night pain related to more distal tender points. Patients with higher night pain had increased tenderness in septum intermuscular and extensor muscles' proximal tendons., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest regarding the publication of this article., (Copyright © 2020 The Japanese Orthopaedic Association. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: The current standard of treatment of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is reconstruction (ACLR). This technique has some disadvantages: poor proprioception, donor site morbidity and the inability to restore joint kinematics. ACL repair could be an alternative treatment. The purpose of the study was to compare the stability and the function after ACL primary repair versus single-bundle ACLR., Methods: In a retrospective study, 12 patients underwent primary ACL repair with internal bracing, 15 patients underwent standard ACLR. Follow-up examinations were evaluated at up to 2 years postoperatively. One patient in the ACL repair group was lost to follow-up due to re-rupture. The absolute value of anterior tibial translation (ATT) and the side-to-side difference in the same patient (ΔATT) were evaluated using the GNRB arthrometer. The Lysholm knee scoring was obtained. Re-ruptures and other complications were recorded., Results: Anterior tibial translation (ATT) was significantly decreased in the ACL repair group compared with the ACLR group (5.31 mm vs. 7.18 mm, respectively; p = 0.0137). Arthrometric measurements demonstrated a mean side-to-side difference (ΔATT) 1.87 (range 0.2 to 4.9) mm significantly decreased compared to ACLR 3.36 (range 1.2-5.6 mm; p = 0.0107). The mean Lysholm score was 85.3 points in the ACL repair group and 89.9 in ACLR group. No significant differences between ACL repair and ACLR were found for the Lysholm score. There was no association between AP laxity and clinical outcomes. There were two complications in the internal bracing group: one patient had re-rupture and was treated by ACLR, another had limited extension and had arthroscopic debridement., Conclusions: Anterior tibial translation was significantly decreased after ACL repair. Additionally, the functional results after ACL repair with internal bracing were comparable with those after ACLR. It should be noted that the two complications occurred. The current study supports further development of ACL repair techniques.

Introduction: There are few studies that compare the cadaver dissections with the medical simulators in means of talent improvement. Therefore, the aim of this study is to find out if using cadaver dissections is still the golden standard for surgical training or using the medical simulators in surgery could replace cadaver dissections., Materials and Methods: The study is conducted during the European Orthopaedics & Traumatology Education Platform accredited Shoulder Club International Cadaver Course including a number of 34 orthopedics trainees. The participants were randomly divided into two groups to be trained with the simulator (Group 1) and on cadavers (Group 2), followed by a test performed on shoulder arthroscopy simulator (Virtamed ArthroS, Switzerland). There was no conflict of interest before, during, or after the study. Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants included in the study., Results: Group 2 had statistically significant higher simulation overview procedure time values than Group 1 (p < 0.05), the meaning of which is participants trained with the simulator completed the given tasks in a shorter period of time. Group 2 had statistically significant higher scratching of humerus cartilage values than Group 1 (p < 0.05), which means that participants trained with simulation have less scratching done on the humerus cartilage than the participants trained on a cadaver., Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first one to compare virtual reality (VR) simulators with cadavers for surgical education in an objective manner, while using qualitative and quantitative data. According to this study, it is possible to state that VR simulators are just as effective as cadavers in means of training subjects. As medical education will face a total change all around the world after the COVID-19 pandemic, this study has the potential to be an important guide during and after this period., Competing Interests: There was no conflict of interest before, during, or after the study., (This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.)

Introduction: Scapular body fractures represent less than 1% of all skeletal fractures. Operative criteria and risk factors for scapular fracture instability are well defined. Non-operative management of scapular body fractures show satisfactory results but with shortening and medialization of the scapular body. The aim of this study is to evaluate if surgical treatment will result in an improved quality of life and shoulder function compared to non-operative treatment on patients suffering from a scapular body fracture., Materials and Methods: From a total of 381 retrospectively identified scapular body fractures, we included 45 patients. The enrolled patients were divided into two groups: the surgical treatment (ST, n = 20) group and the non-operative treatment (NOT, n = 25) group. The Non-Union Scoring System (NUSS) was used to assess bone healing on radiographs. The functional evaluation of the two groups during the follow-up were performed using the Constant Shoulder Score (CSS) and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (QuickDASH). Complications, reoperation rates, and time until bony union were also documented. The minimum follow-up for this study was designated as 12 months., Results: The ST group had better mean CSS and QuickDASH scores compared to the NOT group at 1, 3 and 6 months of follow-up. No statistically significant difference was detected at 12 months follow-up. ST group also demonstrated improved results in time until bone union, reduction of rehabilitation time, complications and return to work rates., Conclusion: This study suggests that surgical treatment for extraarticular scapular fractures can achieve better short-term functional outcomes (3 to 6 months) compared to conservative treatment., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Aim: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there is an association between smoking, the extent of the degeneration process in the biceps tendinopathy, including cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) alterations, and long-term surgical results., Methods: This study comprised 40 consecutive patients admitted for shoulder arthroscopy due to symptomatic biceps tendinopathy and classified into three groups based on smoking status: active smokers, former smokers, and non-smokers. According to the classical Bonar score criteria, the histopathologic evaluation of the harvested intra-articular portion of the tendon was done. The follow-up examination was based on the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (ASES)., Results: A cohort of 32 patients was enrolled in the final follow-up examination; mean 37.56 months. Histopathological evaluation according to the classical Bonar score revealed degeneration of the tendinous tissue in each group but there was no correlation between the extent of degeneration, smoking indexes and the ASES. After revision of Bonar scale within the vascularity criterion, we found a correlation between the extent of degeneration of tendinous tissue, smoking data, ASES score, and the severity of rotator cuff injury., Conclusion: In this paper, we indicate the ambiguous role of the neovascularization in the biceps tendinopathy, and it was used for modification of the classical Bonar score. Consequently, recalculated, modified Bonar score was correlated positively with smoking indexes and functional outcomes. Furthermore, the morphological alterations of rotator cuff tendons also correlated positively with the extent of biceps tendon degeneration, measured according to the modified scoring system., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest statement: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (© The Author(s), 2021.)

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of smoking and functional outcomes after arthroscopic treatment of complex shoulder injuries: rotator cuff tears (RCTs) with biceps tendon (LHBT) tears. This retrospective case-control study has been conducted on a cohort of patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy between 2015 and 2017 due to complex injury treatment. The outcomes were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (ASES), the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score, need for non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) consumption and the visual analog scale (VAS). Complications and changes in smoking status were also noted. A cohort of 59 patients underwent shoulder arthroscopy, due to complex LHBT pathology and RCTs, and were enrolled in the final follow-up examination; with mean duration of 26.03 months. According to smoking status, 27 of patients were classified as smokers, and the remaining 32 were non-smokers. In the examined cohort, 36 patients underwent the LHBT tenotomy and 23 tenodesis. We observed a relationship between smoking status and distribution of various RCTs ( p < 0.0001). The mean postoperative ASES and UCLA scores were 80.81 and 30.18 in the smoker's group and 84.06 and 30.93 in the non-smoker's group, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in pre/postoperative ASES and postoperative UCLA scores between smokers and non-smokers ( p > 0.05). The VAS was significantly lower in the non-smokers' group ( p = 0.0021). Multi-tendon injuries of the shoulder are a serious challenge for surgeons, and to obtain an excellent functional outcome, we need to limit the negative risk factors, including smoking. Furthermore, there is a significant association between smoking and the occurrence of massive rotator cuff tears, and the pain level measured by the VAS. Simultaneous surgical treatment of RC and LHBT lesions in the smoker population allowed us to obtain the functional outcomes approximated to non-smokers in the long-term follow-up. Of course, we cannot assert that smoking is the real cause of all complications, however, we may assume that this is a very important, negative factor in shoulder arthroscopy.

Rotator cuff tears (RCT) are a common problem encountered by orthopaedic surgeons. The incidence of re-tears (up to 94%) following surgical repair of RCTs renders the management of RCTs challenging. This higher re-tear rate has been attributed to the failure of healing at the tendon-bone junction. Biological augmentation methods such as growth factors, stem cell therapies, and biomaterials have been developed to promote the healing at the tendon-bone junction. Growth factors and stem cell therapies have been intensively studied in mid to large RCTs. Biomaterials have been generally utilized for large or massive RCTs. However, these newly generated biological augmentation strategies are mostly studied in animal models. The efficacy and safety of the biological augmentation methods in humans need further investigation. In this review, we aimed to highlight the most recent advancements in RCT surgical repair with biological augmentation., (Copyright© by the Medical Assotiation of Zenica-Doboj Canton.)

The study aimed to evaluate the results after arthroscopic tenodesis and tenotomy of the biceps tendon (LHBT), coupled in tenotomy modality with a personalized postoperative rehabilitation protocol. The study included patients who underwent arthroscopic biceps tenotomy or tenodesis due to chronic biceps tendinopathy. Postoperatively, a standard rehabilitation program was prescribed to the tenodesis group and personalized was introduced in the tenotomy group, respectively. The outcomes were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scale (ASES), clinical tests that are dedicated to biceps tendinopathy, the occurrence of a Popeye deformity, night pain, and return to previous sporting activities. A cohort of 67 patients was enrolled in the final follow-up examination (mean 27 months) of which 40 patients underwent tenotomy (60%), and 27 patients (40%) underwent tenodesis. The mean ASES score improved from 48.1 to 87.8 in the tenotomy group and from 44 to 72.7 in the tenodesis group during the follow-up ( p < 0.0001). The tenotomy group had better mean postoperative ASES scores than the tenodesis group ( p < 0.0001). Positive clinical tests for biceps pathology were noticed more often in patients after LHB tenodesis ( p = 0.0541). The Popeye deformity occurred more often in the tenotomy group; however, no patient complained of the visual appearance of the arm contour ( p = 0.0128). Moreover, the frequency of night pain decreased in the tenotomy group ( p = 0.0059). Return to previous sporting activities was more frequent in the tenotomy group ( p = 0.0090). Arthroscopic biceps tenotomy is a reproducible, simple procedure, and augmented by a rapid rehabilitation protocol that provides promising clinical outcomes, reduces shoulder pain, and allows the patient to return to previous sporting activities, even in population older than 50 years.

Background/aim: The success of treatment of bone fracture and defects are based on a proper contact and compression between the bone fracture fragments. Intraoperative manipulations such as bone compression or distractions are generally done in order to achieve this. However, none of the bone plates currently in routine use allow these manipulations after fixation to the bone, requiring refixation and repeated drilling, and screwing operations. Based on this shortcoming, we designed a novel adjustable bone plate (ABP) system which allows bone shortening and lengthening even after fixation to the bone surface. The aim of the paper is to clarify the unique properties of the novel bone plate., Materials and Methods: In this paper, the new generation adjustable bone plate applicability, design, indication, and new characteristics in addition to conventional bone plates with review of the literature were discussed and surgical technique was demonstrated in a saw bone model., Results: This novel design allows for compression and distraction at the fracture ends post fixation as well as bone segment transfers., Conclusions: The potential of the new generation ABP plate for use in bone compression, distraction, and the segmental bone transfer is a promising invention for clinical applications in the future., Competing Interests: The author declares that there is no conflict of interest., (This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.)

Aims: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether smoking is associated with neovascularization in the tendinopathy of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT)., Methods: The study included 40 consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic biceps tenotomy/tenodesis due to chronic biceps tendinopathy and divided into three groups: (1) non-smokers, (2) former smokers, (3) smokers. LHBT tissue samples were stained with H&E, Alcian blue and Trichrome staining. Immunohistochemical examination was performed using anti-CD31 and anti-CD34. The neovessel density score (NDS) was scored by Bonar criteria., Results: The mean period of smoking was 15.50 years with an average number of 24 cigarettes/day in the former smokers and 21.69 years with an average number of 15 cigarettes/day in the active smokers. The mean NDS was 2.23/3 in non-smokers, whereas it was 1.60/3 in former smokers and 1.31/3 in active smokers. The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score equaled 46 in never smoked patients, 43.60 in former smokers, and 41.46 in active smokers. In the patients with smoking history, the disorganized tendinous tissue islands were avascular and composed of compact acidic polysaccharides and mucopolysaccharides. We observed negative correlation between the NDS and the smoking indexes, including cigarettes per day ( p  = 0.0150), smoking years ( p  = 0.0140), pack-years ( p  = 0.0088)., Conclusion: In conclusion, the present study revealed that smoking impairs the vascularization of the biceps tendon in chronic tendinopathy. Clinically, we observed a negative correlation between smoking and neovascularization. Furthermore, there was no correlation between neovascularization and functional preoperative status., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest statement: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (© The Author(s), 2020.)

Aim The gradual increase in shoulder implants in active elderly patients has appeared in a parallel increase in periprosthetic humeral fractures. The aim of this study was to investigate the advantages of using strut grafting with plate fixation during periprosthetic humerus fractures. Methods Thirty patients diagnosed with periprosthetic humeral fracture were divided into two groups. The first group of 15 patients (PS) underwent plate, ring, screws and strut allografts. The second group with resting 15 patients (PWS) was treated with only plate and screws. The criteria to evaluate the groups during followup were the Constant Shoulder Score (CSS) and Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS); the bone healing was measured by X-rays, controls measured by radiographic union score (RUS), and complications. The follow up was terminated at 12nd month in both groups. Results The difference between the two groups in all parameters was not significant. However, all patients gained adequate shoulder motor skills for normal daily living activities. All fractures were healed. Only two complications were registered, and blood loss was minimal. Conclusion We believe a revision to reverse shoulder prosthesis with a long-stem implant with or without cortical strut allograft augmentation to be safe and appropriate in the management of these complex injuries, though technically challenging, and having good results for normal activities daily life., (Copyright© by the Medical Assotiation of Zenica-Doboj Canton.)

Background: AC joint injury is a common disorder with a reported incidence of three to four cases per 100.000. A multitude of surgical techniques has been described for the treatment of the AC joint injuries with no clear consensus regarding the optimal treatment. We hypothesized that we would obtain favorable clinical outcomes using a novel minimally-invasive polymer cerclage wire system compared to other reported techniques in the literature., Methods: All adult patients treated with subacute AC separations in our department between the dates of 2014-2017 were retrospectively reviewed clinically and radiographically. Clinical outcomes scores that were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively included ASES score, constant score and the UCLA shoulder rating scale., Results: Five patients with Type 5 AC separations were included in this study who underwent surgical treatment by the same orthopedic surgeon (G.H.) using the same minimally-invasive technique. The mean follow-up period was 22.4 months (range 18 to 29). Mean preoperative coracoclavicular (CC) distance was 19.7 mm (range 16.4 to 24.5 mm) on the surgical side and 9.48 mm on the contralateral side. Mean early postoperative CC distance was 7.1 mm (range 4.5 to 11.2 mm). At the latest follow-up, the mean CC distance was 13.8 mm (range 7.3 to 21.2 mm). Mean preoperative Constant score was 48, the UCLA shoulder rating score was 14.8, and the ASES shoulder score was 49.26. Mean follow up Constant score was 91.6, UCLA shoulder rating score was 33.8 and ASES shoulder score was 93.75. No neurovascular complication was observed after procedure. There were no cases of clinical or radiographic failure or loss of fixation. No AC joint arthritis was observed at the latest follow-up., Conclusion: We present a novel minimally-invasive polymer cerclage wire technique which provides comparable results as other reported arthroscopic and open techniques for Type 5 AC joint separations.