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Surgical Treatment for the Ossification of the Coracoclavicular Ligaments: A Case Series of Four Patients

Borg Leijtens, Luc Dirk Pieter Tilman, M. Ostendorf, F. L. Heerspink, O. Dorrestijn

Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports, 2026

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Ossification of the coracoclavicular ligaments is a rarely described diagnosis that impairs shoulder functioning, and the best choice of treatment is unknown. In this article, four patients are described undergoing the surgical removal of this ossification. In three cases, the additional reconstruction of the ligaments is performed. Case Series: The patients were retrospectively enrolled, and the patient-related outcome measures were recorded. These included pain, satisfaction and specific shoulder scores that quantified their functioning in activities of daily living following surgery. The follow-up was 34–48 months. The overall patient satisfaction and shoulder function were fairly high. However, all the patients still had some disability in daily life. Conclusion: The surgical removal of ossified coracoclavicular ligaments is likely to improve shoulder pain and functioning, but patients should be aware of some residual impairment in daily life.

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a case series, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.

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