A 35-year-old rock climber presents with a Grade III acromioclavicular joint separation after a fall onto the shoulder tip. Which component of the coracoclavicular ligament is the primary restraint against superior migration of the clavicle and is the key structure torn in this injury?
- A Trapezoid ligament
- B Conoid ligament ✓
- C Acromioclavicular ligament
- D Coracoacromial ligament
Correct answer: B. Conoid ligament
Explanation
The conoid ligament is the strongest component of the coracoclavicular ligament and is the primary restraint against superior displacement of the clavicle at the AC joint. Its vertical orientation from the coracoid process to the conoid tubercle of the clavicle makes it the key structure torn in complete AC joint separations. The trapezoid ligament resists horizontal (axial) compression rather than vertical translation.
Reference: Rockwood and Green's Fractures in Adults, 9th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.