Carbon fiber replacement of the ligaments of the shoulder girdle and the treatment of lateral instability of the ankle joint.

A normal active human being will not accept chronic instability or persistent luxation of any joint. Many attempts have been made to stabilize a damaged joint with autogeneic and allogeneic materials and by various surgical techniques. In animal and clinical trials, carbon fibers are reported to be a promising material for ligament replacement in chronic joint instability. The authors are investigating carbon fibers not only for repair of chronic instability of knee joints but also for chronic luxations and subluxations of the sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, and ankle joints. For long-term stability of the new ligament, carbon fibers must be implanted in cancellous bone channels. Ingrowth of connective tissue and newly formed bone produces a secure ligament anchorage. A temporary tension band wire loop immobilizes the sternoclavicular or acromioclavicular joint. The ankle ligament replacements are immobilized with a weight-bearing plaster boot for six weeks postoperation. The use of carbon fibers as a ligament replacement in the sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, and ankle joints produces favorable functions and stability. Reconstruction of the normal ligament insertions of a joint is essential, particularly with respect to supination and free range of movement. Of 56 cases with lateral chronic instability of the ankle, 51 with a mean average postoperative follow-up period of two years, 49 had subjectively good results. Stable joints were demonstrable in 48 cases; supination was limited in four cases.