Classification of the morphology of the acromioclavicular joint using cadaveric and radiological analysis

Abstract

The aim of this study was to establish a classification system for the acromioclavicular joint using cadaveric dissection and radiological analyses of both reformatted computed tomographic scans and conventional radiographs centred on the joint. This classification should be useful for planning arthroscopic procedures or introducing a needle and in prospective studies of biomechanical stresses across the joint which may be associated with the development of joint pathology. We have demonstrated three main three-dimensional morphological groups namely flat, oblique and curved, on both cadaveric examination and radiological assessment. These groups were recognised in both the coronal and axial planes and were independent of age.

The Normal Acromioclavicular Joint: An In Vivo Multidetector CT (MDCT) Morphometric and Biometric Cross Sectional Feasibility Study

“…This is comparable to the results of Colegate-Stone et al [18] who found no significant difference between the three morphologic shapes of the AC joint in their CT analysis correlated with cadaveric dissections.…”

An analysis of acromioclavicular joint morphology as a factor for shoulder impingement syndrome

“…A previous study of the AC joint has described three main morphologies of the AC joint (flat, oblique and curved). 4 There is historical support for the presence of variation of the AC joint. De Palma described varying inclinations at the articulating ends of the clavicle and acromion.…”

“…This method was identical that used in the previous radiographic assessment of the morphology of the ACJ in the normal population. 4 The reported frequency of AC joint morphology in the normal population was used as a reference point for comparison with the AC morphology frequency in this study population. The study of the normal population also included assessment of the AC joint using reformatted computed tomography scans in both the true coronal and transverse planes.…”

Floating shoulder with the lateral clavicular fragment impinging on parietal pleura: A case report

“…But following a fracture lateral fragment impinging on pleura is very rare entity. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to prevent injury to lung parenchyma 14,15,16 .…”