Arthroscopic distal clavicle resection in athletes: a prospective comparison of the direct and indirect approach

38 athletes who required arthroscopic distal clavicle resection were randomized into 2 groups. The first group received a direct superior approach in arthroscopic distal clavicle resection and the second group received an indirect subacromial approach. Outcomes were measured by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (ASES) and Athletic Shoulder Scoring System (ATH) scores. Results demonstrated that both the direct and indirect approaches had successful clinical outcomes, with the direct approach producing a faster return to sport time for patients.