Clinical features, radiographical findings and outcome evaluation for the treatment of acromioclavicular joint dislocation with lock hook plate

Abstract

Background: Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation is a common shoulder injury. Currently, there is no consensus on conservative treatment and surgical technique options. Reduction and fixation with hook surgery are effective in treating acute ACJ dislocation. However, there are very few studies evaluating the results of this method. Objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics, radiographical findings and evaluate outcomes of acute ACJ dislocation treated by internal fixation with a lock hook plate. Materials and methods: A prospective clinical study on 35 patients diagnosed with ACJ dislocation grade III or higher according to Rockwood classification were assigned surgical treatment with a hook plate, at Can Tho Central General Hospital in 2020- 2022. We documented the general characteristics of patients, clinical features, radiographical findings and treatment outcomes. Results: 35 patients (26 men/9 women, 44.2 y) were included in the study. The ACJ dislocation of grades III and V were almost equal in proportion. The averaged surgery time was approximately 60 minutes. The result of reduction of ACJ was 100%. According to the Constant-Murley Score, the functional results increased from 54.8±4.2 before surgery to 88.5±3.8 after 6 months of surgery, and the Constant-Murley level achieved 100% good to excellent.
The satisfaction level of patients was 77.1% very satisfied and 22.9% satisfied. Conclusion: Reduction and fixation surgery with lock hook plate in the treatment of acute ACJ dislocation (<3 weeks) is one of the suitable methods with the ability to reduce and rehabilitate good function of the joint so that the patients can return to activity and work soon.