TightRope elastic fixation combined with functional total repair of inferior tibiofibular ligament in treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To study the effectiveness of TightRope elastic fixation combined with functional total repair of the inferior tibiofibular ligament in the treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 34 patients with distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury who met the selection criteria between January 2020 and January 2022 were retrospectively analyzed, and they were divided into improved group (TightRope elastic fixation combined with functional total repair of inferior tibiofibular ligament) and control group (distal tibiofibular screw fixation) according to the surgical methods, with 17 cases in each group. There was no significant difference in age, gender, body mass index, fracture type, and other baseline data between the two groups (P>0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and complications were recorded in the two groups. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, ankle metatarsal flexion and dorsal extension range of motion were used to evaluate the ankle function. The patient satisfaction survey was conducted at last follow-up.@*RESULTS@#All 34 patients were followed up 8-20 months, with a median of 13 months. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss in the improved group were significantly longer than that in the control group (P<0.05). In the improved group, no infection or poor reduction occurred, and only 1 patient had TightRope knot reaction at 6 months after operation. In the control group, there were 2 cases of poor reduction, 1 case of lower tibiofibular screw rupture, and 1 case of subcutaneous infection (cured after anti-infection treatment). There was no significant difference in the incidence of complications between the two groups (P>0.05). At last follow-up, the AOFAS score and ankle metatarsal flexion and dorsal extension range of motion of the improved group were significantly better than those of the control group (P<0.05). The satisfaction rates of patients in the improved group and the control group were 94.1% and 82.4%, respectively, showing significant difference (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#TightRope elastic fixation combined with functional total repair of inferior tibiofibular ligament in the treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury has sufficient fixation strength, and can achieve better effectiveness and joint function compared with traditional screw fixation.

Mid-term outcome of arthroscopic TightRope fixation of displaced lateral end clavicular fractures: Average follow-up of 6.1 years / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

PURPOSE@#Various surgical modalities are available to treat Neer types 2 and 5 unstable fractures of lateral end clavicle but none of them are standardized. Arthroscopic fixation of the displaced lateral end clavicle fractures provides good short-term results but mid- to long-term outcomes are not available. The purpose of this study was to show the mid- to long-term radiological and functional outcomes of these fractures treated arthroscopically by a TightRope device, and to show the complications associated with this procedure.@*METHODS@#A retrospective study was conducted over 2 years from January 2014 to December 2015 with a minimum 5-year follow-up. Active patients aged 18-50 years with acute (less than 3 weeks) displaced fracture of lateral end of the clavicle, with a minimum 5-year follow-up were included in the study. Patients with associated fractures of the proximal humerus, glenoid, scapula and acromioclavicular joint injuries were excluded from the study along with open fractures and neurovascular injuries. The outcomes were assessed by objective (complications and radiographic examination) and subjective criteria (quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score, the Constant-Murley score and the visual pain analogue scale). The data were analyzed by SPSS version 21.0.@*RESULTS@#Totally, 42 patients were operated during the study period and 37 were available with a minimum 5-year follow-up. Thirty were male and 7 were female with a mean age of 29.5 years and a mean follow-up of 6.1 years. The mean quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score was 68.2 ± 4.6 preoperatively and 1.27 ± 2.32 at final follow-up (p < 0.001); the mean visual pain analogue scale score was 6.85 ± 2.2 preoperatively and 0.86 ± 1.60 at final follow-up (p < 0.001). The average Constant-Murley score was 93.38 ± 3.25 at the end of the follow-up. There were 2 fixation failures, with established non-union and 3 patients developed radiographic acromioclavicular joint arthritis.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Arthroscopic TightRope fixation of displaced lateral end clavicular fractures provides good radiological and functional outcomes at mid- to long-term follow-up. With the low complication rates and high patient satisfaction, this technique can be considered as a primary option in the surgical treatment of these fractures.

Técnica de TightRope modificada no tratamento da doença do ligamento cruzado cranial em cães: resultados a longo prazo / Modified TightRope technique for treatment of the cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs: long term outcomes

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os resultados a longo prazo do uso da técnica extracapsular TightRope (TR) modificada no tratamento da doença do ligamento cruzado cranial (LCCr) em oito cães (10 articulações) com peso corporal variando entre 4kg e 28kg. Todos os animais selecionados foram submetidos aos exames ortopédicos específicos, sendo diagnosticada ruptura completa do LCCr pelos testes de gaveta e de compressão tibial. Realizaram-se exames radiográficos convencionais e em posição de estresse das articulações. A técnica TR foi modificada utilizando-se o fio de náilon substituindo o fio de fibra empregado na técnica original, facilitando a disponibilidade de obtenção do material. Houve também modificação na origem da perfuração do túnel tibial, sendo realizada imediatamente cranial ao sulco do tendão extensor digital longo. Todos os cães foram submetidos ao exame radiográfico tanto no pós-operatório imediato como no tardio. Aos 30 dias após a intervenção cirúrgica, os pacientes apresentavam claudicação nos membros pélvicos operados de grau discreto a moderado. Foi observado discreto movimento de gaveta cranial em 60% das articulações acometidas. Aos três meses após o procedimento cirúrgico, os animais apresentaram ausência de dor e discreta redução na amplitude dos movimentos articulares. Em duas articulações (20%) observou-se discreto deslocamento cranial da tíbia no teste de gaveta. Nesta fase, 80% dos membros avaliados apresentavam apoio normal. Um ano após a intervenção cirúrgica, observou-se ao exame radiográfico discreta progressão da doença articular degenerativa em 50% das articulações operadas. Das oito articulações avaliadas a longo prazo, em apenas um membro operado observou-se discreta claudicação com reduzida transferência de peso para o membro contralateral. Os demais membros pélvicos avaliados (87,5%) demonstraram ausência de claudicação e adequada recuperação da função articular. Concluiu-se que a técnica cirúrgica extracapsular TR modificada mostrou-se efetiva como opção de tratamento para doença do LCCr em cães de porte pequeno e médio, não apresentando complicações. As modificações do fio cirúrgico e da perfuração da tíbia na técnica TR parecem ter efeitos positivos na estabilização da articulação do joelho.(AU)

The aim of the study was to describe the long term outcomes of the modified extracapsular TightRope (TR) technique in the treatment of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease in eight dogs (10 joints) with a body weight ranging from 4kg to 28kg. The animals were submitted to specific orthopedic examinations and were diagnosed with total CCL rupture by drawer and tibial compression tests. Conventional and stress positional radiographic examinations of the affected joints were performed. The TR technique was modified using the nylon suture thread replacing the fiber suture used in the original technique, which facilitated the availability of obtaining the material. There was also modification in the origin of the tibial tunnel perforation that was performed immediately cranial to the groove of the long digital extensor tendon. The dogs underwent radiographic examination in the immediate postoperative and in later periods. At one month after surgical procedure, the animals showed mild or moderate lameness in the affected pelvic limbs. Mild cranial tibial drawer was observed in 60% of the operated joints. At three months after the procedure, the animals have mild decrease in the range of joint motion, but without signs of pain. Two stifle joints (20%) showed a slight cranial displacement of the tibia in the drawer test. In this period, 80% of the affected joints showed normal limb support. At one year after the procedure, radiographic examination showed a discrete progression of the degenerative joint disease in 50% of the operated joints. The long term outcomes were obtained from eight joints and in only one pelvic limb was observed mild lameness with slight weight transfer to the normal contralateral limb. All other evaluated pelvic limbs (87.5%) showed no lameness and proper recovery of joint function. In conclusion, the modified TR extracapsular surgical technique proved to be effective as a treatment option for CCL disease in small and medium dogs, with no complications. Modifications of the surgical suture thread and the tibial site perforation of the TR technique seem to have positive effects on stabilization of the stifle joint.(AU)

Efficacy comparison of AC TightRope plate and clavicular hook plate for acromioclavicular joint dislocation / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To compare the short-term efficacy of AC TightRope plate and clavicular hook plate in the treatment of acromioclavicular joint dislocation.Methods A retrospective case control study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 32 patients with acromioclavicular joint dislocation admitted to Yifu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University from April 2016 to December 2017.There were 23 males and 9 females,aged 26-61 years [(43.5 ±9.5)years].According to Rockwood classification,there were 23 patients with type Ⅲ and 9 patients with type Ⅴ.The patients were divided into AC TightRope group and clavicular hook plate group according to different treatment methods.There were 17 patients in AC TightRope group,including 12 males and 5 females,aged (42.6 ± 10.3)years.There were 15 patients in clavicular hook plate group,including 11 males and 4 females,aged (44.5 ± 8.9)years.The incision length,operation time,intraoperative blood loss,hospitalization time,postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) of the affected shoulder,functional recovery of shoulder joint and complications were compared between the two groups.Results All patients were followed up for 6-26 months,with an average of 15 months.There was no significant difference between the two groups in hospitalization time (P ＞ 0.05).In the AC TightRope group and clavicular hook plate group,the operation time was (41.5 ±4.2)minutes and (60.1 ± 4.2) minutes,respectively (P ＜ 0.01);the incision length was (3.6 ± 0.3) cm and (10.1 ± 0.6) cm,respectively (P ＜ 0.01);the intraoperative blood loss was (45.3 ± 11.1) ml and (78.3 ± 16.0) ml,respectively (P ＜ 0.01);the postoperative VAS of the shoulder was (1.9 ± 0.5) points and (3.1 ± 0.7) points,respectively (P ＜ 0.05);the excellent and good rate of postoperative recovery of shoulder joint function was 100％ (17/17) and 67％ (10/15),respectively (P ＜0.01).There were no complications such as surgical incision infection,intraoperative neurovascular injury or condylar fracture during the perioperative period.No serious postoperative complications such as internal fixation loosening,loss of reduction or recurrence of dislocation were found in both groups.Conclusion For acromioclavicular joint dislocation,AC TightRope can obtain good clinical effect and has obvious advantages in operation time,incision length and blood loss,with lower incidence of shoulder pain and better functional recovery compared with clavicular hook plate.

Reconstrucción artroscópica de fracturas del extremo distal de clavícula / Arthroscopic reconstruction of distal clavicle fractures

La fractura de clavícula representa 35 a 45 % de las fracturas de la cintura escapular, y de ellas el 15-25% comprometen el extremo distal de ella. El objetivo de esta publicación es describir nuestra técnica de reconstrucción artroscópica de las fracturas del extremo distal de clavícula con sistema AC TigthRope o sistema DogBone con sutura fibertape. La reconstrucción y estabilización artroscópica de las fracturas inestables del extremo distal de la clavícula con sistema AC TigthRope o sistema Dogbone ambos con sutura FiberTape mas la estabilización del fragmento distal de la fractura mediante suturas transósea permite una fijación estable para la consolidación de la misma. La técnica descripta permite rápida recuperación funcional y el retorno a las actividades de la vida diaria. Tipo de Trabajo: Técnica Quirúrgica. Nivel de Evidencia: V.

Fractures of the clavicle represent between 35 to 45% of all the fractures of the shoulder girdle, and 15 to 25% of these are of the distal clavicle. The purpose of this study is to describe our arthroscopic reconstruction technique of the distal clavicle using the AC Tightrope or DogBone Systems with fibertape. The arthroscopic reconstruction and stabilization of ustable distal clavicle fractures with the AC TightRope or DogBone Systems both with Fibertape with stabilization of the unstable bone fragments with trans oseous sutures allow a stable fixation until it consolidates. The technique described allows a fast recovery and retour to the activities of daily living. Type of Study: Surgical Technique. Level of Evidence: V.

Luxación acromioclavicular (LAC) aguda. Resultados con técnica de doble Endobutton® sin reconstrucción ligamentaria / Acromio clavicular acute dislocation. Results with double endobutton technique without ligament reconstruction

Introducción Las lesiones de la articulación acromioclavicular (AC) son muy comunes y van en aumento por el incremento de los deportes de contacto y el aumento del número de deportistas. Se presentan en el 9% de todas las lesiones de la cintura escapular. La gran cantidad de técnicas quirúrgicas descritas e ilustradas nos evidencia el hecho de que la técnica ideal para tratar este tipo de lesiones sintomáticas no ha sido desarrollada. El objetivo del estudio es reportar los resultados radiográficos en luxaciones de la AC de tipo V mediante la técnica de doble Endobutton® sin reconstrucción de ligamentos. Materiales y métodos Desde enero de 2011 hasta diciembre de 2013, 15 pacientes con luxación acromioclavicular aguda (<3 semanas) fueron tratados con la técnica de doble Endobutton® sin reconstrucción ligamentaria. Todos los pacientes presentaron luxación de tipo V según clasificación de Rockwood. Entre los pacientes, 12 fueron de sexo masculino y 3 de sexo femenino, con una media de edad de 35 años (rango de 22 a 56 años), evaluados con rayos X en el postoperatorio inmediato, y 1, 3 y 12 meses después. Resultados De los 15 pacientes, 7 presentaron pérdida de reducción radiográfica durante el primer año postoperatorio en comparación con radiografía inicial. Discusión Mediante la técnica de doble Endobutton® en las luxaciones de la AC de tipo V sin asociar una reconstrucción de ligamentos, obtuvimos el 46% de pérdida de reducción en el primer año postoperatorio. Por ello, concluimos que esta técnica presenta un alto porcentaje de pérdida de reducción en este tipo de lesiones. Nivel de evidencia clínica Nivel IV.

Background The acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are common, accounting for 9% of all injuries to the shoulder girdle. The multitude of techniques describes and illustrates the fact that the ideal technique to treat a symptomatic AC joint dislocation remains to be found. Materials & methods From January 2011 to December 2013, 15 patients with acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation were surgically immobilized with the double Endobutton® technique without ligament reconstruction. All the patients had type V AC dislocations according to Allman-Rockwood classification. Among the patients, 12 patients were male and 3 patients were female, with an average age of 35 years (ranged from 22 to 56 years). The therapeutic effects were evaluated with postoperative X-ray, at 1, 3 and 12 months. Results From fifteen patients in this study, seven patient lost radiographic reduction during the first year of postoperative procedure compared with the first post-operative Rx. There were no other complications reported. Discussion We obtained with the double Endobutton® AC reduction without ligament reconstruction a 46% of loosening reduction in the first year. This technique has a high percentage of loss of reduction in this type of patient. Evidence level IV.

Evaluación clínica y radiográfica de una nueva técnica percutánea para la corrección de la deformidad en hallux valgus moderada a severa / Clinical and radiographic evaluation of a new percutaneous technique for moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity

Resumen: El hallux valgus es considerado la deformidad del aparato locomotor más frecuente, con una prevalencia de 88%. Existen más de 130 técnicas quirúrgicas para su tratamiento; actualmente se encuentra de moda el uso de técnicas de anclaje percutáneas; sin embargo, no toman en cuenta la corrección del ángulo metatarsofalángico. El objetivo del siguiente estudio es mostrar la técnica modificada de anclaje percutáneo con corrección del ángulo metatarsofalángico e intermetatarsiano, así como la evaluación clínica y radiológica. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio experimental, prospectivo y longitudinal en una muestra de 10 pacientes con el diagnóstico de hallux valgus moderado a severo según la clasificación Coughlin y Mann; se evaluaron los resultados con la escala de AOFAS a los 15, 30, 60 y 90 días. Se realizaron las técnicas de McBride y de anclaje percutáneo con la modificación propuesta. Resultados: La escala AOFAS mostró un aumento progresivo de la puntación; la corrección media del ángulo intermetatarsiano fue de 8.8 grados y del metatarsofalángico, 9.12. Discusión: La técnica modificada de anclaje percutáneo mostró evidente mejoría clínica y radiográfica en el seguimiento de los pacientes, lo que comprueba que es una técnica aceptable a mediano plazo. Nuestra técnica modificada se desarrollará como una línea de investigación a futuro con un mayor número de pacientes y seguimiento a largo plazo.

Abstract: Hallux valgus is considered the most common musculoskeletal deformity, with a prevalence of 88%. There are more than 130 surgical techniques for its treatment; currently, percutaneous ones are popular; however, they do not take into account the metatarsal-phalangeal correction angle. The aim of this study is to propose a modified technique for the correction of the percutaneous metatarsal-phalangeal and inter-metatarsal angles and to evaluate its clinical and radiological results. Material and methods: An experimental, prospective and longitudinal study in 10 patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus according to the classification of Coughlin and Mann were collected; the results were evaluated with the AOFAS scale at 15, 30, 60 and 90 days. The McBride technique and the technique of percutaneous anchor with the proposed amendment were performed. Results: The AOFAS scale was applied as described, finding a progressive increase of the rating; the average correction of the inter-metatarsal angle was 8.8 degrees and of the metatarsal-phalangeal, 9.12. Discussion: The modified technique of percutaneous anchor showed clear clinical and radiographic improvements in the short term. Our modified technique is proposed for future projects, including a large sample with long-term follow-up.

Arthroscopic Treatment for Acute Avulsion Fracture of Posterior Cruciate Ligament:Two Cases Report / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective To explore the efficacy of arthroscopic treatment for acute avulsion fracture of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) using double titanium plate TightRope. Methods From December 2014 to January 2015, two cases with acute avulsion fracture of PCL were treated with double titanium plate TightRope under arthroscopy, after assessment of three dimensional reconstructive CT and MRI. Rehabili-tation was carried out after operation. Results One case succeeded with double titanium plate TightRope, and rehabilitation could be per-formed early postoperatively. Another case failed in TightRope fixation, and accepted two internal hollow screws fixation instead. Rehabili-tation was delayed until two weeks postoperatively. The function of the knee was satisfactory in the former patient after three months, who could extend the knee in a normal range, without pain or locking. The same effect was gained in the latter patient after four months. Conclu-sion For acute tibial avulsion fracture of PCL with larger and intact fragment without osteoporosis, arthroscopic restoration and fixation with double titanium plate TightRope offers the opportunity to achieve anatomic reconstruction and rigid fixation for early rehabilitation in adult patients.

A New Technique for Solving Tightrope Cutout during Acromioclavicular Joint Fixation: A Case Report

Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dissociation is one of the common injuries affecting adults. The stability of ACJ largely depends on the integrity of acromioclavicular ligament, coracoclavicular ligament, capsule, trapezius muscle and deltoid muscle. The injury has been classified by Rockwood into six types and treatment options can be guided by the classification. TightRope fixation is one of the many surgical procedures available to address acromioclavicular joint separation. It consists of tensioning of a no. 5 Fibrewire suture secured at both ends to lowprofile metallic buttons. Despite various advantages of using this technique, complications such as suture cut-out, clavicle fracture and suture failure have been documented. The author presents a case of a type III acromioclavicular joint dissociation treated with TightRope which suture cutout was noted intra-operatively. Decision to amend the fixation using a cut one-third tubular plate as an additional anchor for the metallic button on the clavicle was made. Patient’s progress was evaluated using the University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Score (UCLA Shoulder Score) and significant improvement was noted six months post operatively. We propose this technique as a solution to the encountered problem.

A Comparison of Results between AO Hook Plate and TightRope for Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation

PURPOSE: The purpose of our study is to compare the radiographic and clinical outcomes with respect to acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation depending on the surgical method: Hook plate (HP) versus TightRope (TR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between May 2009 and May 2012, 51 patients with Rockwood type III-V lesions received clinical and radiographic follow-up. Patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical methods (HP: n=32; TR: n=19). Radiological follow-up included comparative coracoclavicular distance (CCD) measurements as a percentage of the uninjured shoulder. For clinical follow-up, a standardized functional shoulder assessment with the Constant score, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) score, and Korea shoulder score (KSS) were carried out. RESULTS: Comparing the functional results, no differences were observed between the two groups (Constant score: HP, 78.5; TP, 81.4; UCLA score: HP, 29.2; TP, 29.9; KSS: HP, 79.2; TP, 80.7). Time to restoration of the range of motion (ROM) above shoulder level was longer in the HP group than in the TR group. However, the ROM at 1 year postoperation and final follow-up revealed similar results between the two groups. The AC joints were well reduced in both groups, the CCD increased to 44.7% in the HP group and to 76.5% in the TR group at the final follow-up; however, no one was significantly superior to the others. Furthermore, there were 8 cases (25.0%) and 5 cases (26.3%) of AC joint arthritis in the HP group and TR group, respectively. However, the observed AC joint arthritis has a poor correlation between clinical symptom and radiological results in both groups. CONCLUSION: Both HP and TR fixation could be a recommendable treatment option in acute unstable AC joint dislocation. Both groups showed excellent radiologic and functional results at the final visit. Moreover, there was no significant difference in statistics, except for the time to restoration of ROM above shoulder level.

A Comparison of Results between AO Hook Plate and TightRope for Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation

PURPOSE: The purpose of our study is to compare the radiographic and clinical outcomes with respect to acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation depending on the surgical method: Hook plate (HP) versus TightRope (TR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between May 2009 and May 2012, 51 patients with Rockwood type III-V lesions received clinical and radiographic follow-up. Patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical methods (HP: n=32; TR: n=19). Radiological follow-up included comparative coracoclavicular distance (CCD) measurements as a percentage of the uninjured shoulder. For clinical follow-up, a standardized functional shoulder assessment with the Constant score, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) score, and Korea shoulder score (KSS) were carried out. RESULTS: Comparing the functional results, no differences were observed between the two groups (Constant score: HP, 78.5; TP, 81.4; UCLA score: HP, 29.2; TP, 29.9; KSS: HP, 79.2; TP, 80.7). Time to restoration of the range of motion (ROM) above shoulder level was longer in the HP group than in the TR group. However, the ROM at 1 year postoperation and final follow-up revealed similar results between the two groups. The AC joints were well reduced in both groups, the CCD increased to 44.7% in the HP group and to 76.5% in the TR group at the final follow-up; however, no one was significantly superior to the others. Furthermore, there were 8 cases (25.0%) and 5 cases (26.3%) of AC joint arthritis in the HP group and TR group, respectively. However, the observed AC joint arthritis has a poor correlation between clinical symptom and radiological results in both groups. CONCLUSION: Both HP and TR fixation could be a recommendable treatment option in acute unstable AC joint dislocation. Both groups showed excellent radiologic and functional results at the final visit. Moreover, there was no significant difference in statistics, except for the time to restoration of ROM above shoulder level.

SHORT-TERM EFFECTIVENESS OF TightRope SYSTEM FOR TREATMENT OF SYNDESMOTIC TIBIOFIBULAR DIASTASIS / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the short-term effectiveness of TightRope system for the treatment of syndesmotic tibiofibular diastasis.

A Technique of Distal Clavicle Fracture Fixation Using The Tightrope Procedure

We present here a technique of fracture stabilization using the Tightrope procedure in a patient with a widely displaced Neer type IIB distal clavicle fracture. The Tightrope system, typically used for stabilization of acromioclavicular joint dislocation, has not been widely described for distal clavicle fractures. The patient achieved satisfactory results after surgery; we feel that this technique is appealing as it is simple, reproducible and avoids the complications associated with extensive metalwork. This technique may also appeal to the arthroscopic surgeon.

Lisfranc Injury Repair with the TightRope(TM) Device: A Case Report / 대한족부족관절학회지

Lisfranc injury is complex and difficult to treat. Making the correct diagnosis and achieving an anatomical reduction are important factors in regard to achieving a favorable outcome with this injury. We describe a new technique that we have found to be useful for stabilizing Lisfranc injury. This method is relatively fast and simple, and it provides non-rigid fixation. Also, it eliminates the need for implant removal. To date, we have achieved predictable results for stabilizing and treating this injury with the use of a TightRope(TM) Device, instead of traditional interfragmental screw fixation. In this report, we describe a case in which this method was used with satisfactory short-term results.

Arthroscopic Treatment of Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation Using TightRope(R): Preliminary Report

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical and radiologic results of the arthroscopic treatment using TightRope(R) (Arthrex, Inc, Naples, FL) for management of acute acromioclavicular dislocation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve patients with acromioclavicular joint dislocation Rockwood type V are underwent the arthroscopic acromioclavicular joint reconstruction using TightRope(R) between March, 2008 and March, 2009. The average age was 40.4 years (range 25~63 years) and mean follow-up was 10 months (range 8~16 months). The shoulders were evaluated using parameters include radiologic measurements by comparing the clavicle posteroanterior and lateral radiographs with the contralateral one. Clinical evaluation was made for pain, function, and range of joint motion by Constant score and KSS (Korean Shoulder Score). RESULTS: All twelve patients returned to their work without pain in 3 months after operation. The average Constant score and KSS score was 98.4 (range 97~100) and 97.8 (range 97~100) at the last follow-up. Because of technical error and indication error, two patients showed failures of TightRope(R) fixation on the coracoid side and the acromioclavicular joint was redislocated, so these cases were excluded. 10 patients were satisfied with functional results and cosmetic appearance. CONCLUSION: Considering its less morbidity, less hospitalization, excellent cosmesis, early rehabilitation, this new technique offers an attractive alternative in acromioclavicular joint stabilization if the early technical error would be overcome.

Coracoclavicular Ligament Augmentation Using TightRope(R) for Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation : Surgical Technique and Preliminary Results

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to introduce a new surgical technique and to evaluate the preliminary results after operative treatment with using TightRope(R) for treating acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We studies 10 patients who were followed up for more than 6 months after operative treatment with using an TightRope(R). A longitudinal incision approximately 4cm in length was made from 1cm medial to the acromioclavicular joint to the coracoid process, and then coracocalvicular ligament augmentation using TightRope(R) was done after splitting the deltoid. For postoperative stability, two 1.6 mm Kirschner wires were inserted temporarily across the acromioclavicular joint in all cases. The radiologic results on the serial plain radiographs and the clinical results according to the UCLA score were analyzed. RESULTS: Radiologically, 7 cases showed anatomical reduction, 2 cases showed a slightly loss of reduction and 1 case showed partial loss of reduction. Clinically, 6 cases were excellent, 3 cases were good and 1 case was fair. CONCLUSION: Coracoclavicular ligament augmentation using TightRope(R) for treating acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation is a minimally invasive, safe procedure that provides satisfactory radiologic and clinical preliminary results. Yet the long-term results have to be analyzed to determine the final results of this procedure.

Arthroscopic Stabilization of Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation using TightRope(R)

PURPOSE: The proper surgical methods for treating acromioclavicular joint dislocation is still controversial. New methods should provide better early motion with sufficient strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed arthroscopic stabilization using TightRope(R) (Arthrex, Inc, Naples, FL) in 10 cases of acromioclavicular joint dislocation between April, 2007, and December, 2007, and followup for a minimum of 10 months. We performed radiologic evaluation by comparing the clavicle anteroposterior radiograph with the contralateral one. Clinical evaluation was made for pain, function, and range of joint motion by Imatani's methods. RESULTS: In clinical evaluation, 6 cases were excellent, 3 cases were good, and 1 case was poor. In radiologic evaluation, 9 cases were excellent and 1 case was poor. Redislocation occurred in 1 case. CONCLUSION: During short-term followup, 9 of 10 patients who underwent arthroscopic stabilization using TightRope(R) had excellent results in Imatini tests and radiologic evaluation, except 1 patient with redislocation.