Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of surgical treatment of acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation with multistrand titanium cables for coracoclavicular (CC) stabilization.
Methods: Forty-two patients with acute AC joint dislocation, including Rockwood type III 14 cases, type IV 2 cases and type V 26 cases, were operated with CC stabilization using multistrand titanium cables. The cables were removed 3-12 months after surgery. The function outcome was evaluated by Constant scores and visual analog scale (VAS) scores. Radiological examination included bilateral antero-posterior and axillary radiography.
Results: Three patients were lost to follow-up. Thirty-nine patients had an average follow-up time of 42 months (range 34-60). The Constant scores were 95.3 ± 9.3 at final evaluation. Preoperative and final follow-up VAS scores were 5.6 ± 1.5 and 0.4 ± 1.2, respectively (P < 0.05). Radiographs showed anatomical reduction in 32 patients. Cables breakage occurred in two patients.
Conclusions: CC stabilization with multistrand titanium cables was an effective and safe alternative to other procedures for the treatment of acute high-grade AC joint dislocations. It can provide immediate joint stabilization and allow early mobilization of limb with satisfied functional recovery.