Acromioclavicular Joint Fixation Using an Acroplate Combined With a Coracoclavicular Screw

Background: Appropriate treatment of acromioclavicular joint dislocation is controversial. Acroplate fixation is one of the most common treatment methods of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation. Based on the risk of re-dislocation after Acroplate fixation, we assumed that combined fixation with an Acroplate and a coracoclavicular screw helps improve the outcome. Objectives: The main purpose of the current study was to compare the outcome of ACJ dislocation treated with an Acroplate alone and in combination with coracoclavicular screw. Patients and Methods: This study was carried out on 40 patients with ACJ dislocation types Ill to VI who were divided randomly into two equal groups: Acroplate group (P) and Acroplate in combination with coracoclavicular screw group (P + S). The screws were extracted 3-6 months postoperatively The patients were followed for 1 year and Imatani's score was calculated. Finally the data were compared between the groups. Results:The mean Imatani's score was significantly higher in P+S group (83.4 +/- 14.1) than Pgroup (81.2 +/- 10.3) (P < 0 OOi). The mean duration of surgery was the same in the two groups (59.8 +/- 9.4 minutes in group PV.s 643 +/- 10.9 minutes in group P+S; P = 0.169). There were no cases of re-dislocation, degenerative changes and ossification and all patients returned to their previous jobs or sporting activities. Conclusions: Using a coracoclavicular screw combined with an Acroplate can improve the patients' function afterACJ disruption without any significant increase in surgical duration Authors recommend this technique in the fixation of ACJ dislocation.