Midterm results of coracoclavicular stabilization with double augmentation for acute acromioclavicular dislocation.

INTRODUCTION: Numerous techniques have been introduced for the treatment of acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation. We aim to report the midterm results of coracoclavicular (CC) stabilization with double augmentation for the acute AC joint dislocation.

CASE DESCRIPTION: Forty-three patients who underwent surgery for acute AC joint dislocation were followed up for an average of 59.6 months (range 40-97). The study composed of two treatment groups: group S, with 25 patients, in whom two suture anchors were used; and group B, with 18 patients, in whom a suture anchor and a double flip-button device were used, however the techniques in both groups are based on the same principle which is double augmentation. Postoperative evaluations were made retrospectively, clinically, and radiographically.

DISCUSSION AND EVALUATION: At the last follow-up, the mean Constant score was 91.2 (range 74-100) and the UCLA scale was 31.4 (range 24-35). The overall ratio of the CC distance in the injured shoulder to that in the uninjured shoulder, expressed as a percentage, significantly decreased, to 93.4 ± 22.7 %, immediate postoperatively, and significantly increased, to 113.8 ± 23.4 %, at the final follow-up. Complete reduction of the AC joint was achieved in 34 patients (79.1 %), and 8 patients (18.6 %) exhibited a slight loss of reduction, although their functional outcomes were good.

CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study provide evidence that double augmentation is effective in the treatment of acute AC dislocation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic study, case series, Level IV.