Coracoclavicular Distance

Other Names

X-ray shows the coracoclavicular distance (white arrow)

Increased coracoclavicular distance at 17 mm. Note, the acromioclavicular distance is also widened at 10.3 mm classifying this injury as a rockwood III

• Coracoclavicular Distance
• CC distance

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Introduction

• Indicator of the integrity of the coracoclavicular ligament

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Interpretation

• Increased CC distance suggests an acromioclavicular joint separation

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Measurement

Measurement

• Assessed on frontal radiographs of the shoulder or clavicle in the coronal view
• Can also be done on MRI or CT
• Measure the distance between the superior cortex of the coracoid process
• To the undersurface of the clavicle where the coracoacromial ligament inserts

Interpretation

• Normal distance is 11 to 13 mm
• There should be no greater than 5 mm distance between left and right shoulder
• Relevant to Rockwood Classification of acromioclavicular joint injuries

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Pathology

• Acromioclavicular Joint Separation

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Evidence

Acromioclavicular Joint Separation

• Sensitivity/ specificity are not explicitly stated in the literature
• Excellent interobserver and intraobserver reliability

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See Also

• Shoulder Pain Main
• Radiology Main

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