ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the clinical effects of AO clavicular hook plates in treatment of dislocation of acromioclavicular joint and/or fracture of distal clavicle in comparison with traditional means. Methods A retrospective analysis was done to compare the outcomes and complications between the treatment of dislocation of acromioclavicular joint and/or the fracture of distal clavicle by AO clavicular hook plates and the treatment by conventional devices (e.g. Kirschner’s wire, wire-cerclage, bolt, et al). Results 40 cases were followed up for 12 to 20 months and the average time was 14 months. According to Lazzcano’s criterion, the rate of excellent and fine of the clinical outcomes of the 2 groups was 100%and 78.6%respectively. After statistical Chi-square test, P=0.025. Therapeutic outcomes and complications of the former were obviously better than the latter. Conclusion Since AO clavicular hook plates display advantages of rigid fixation, non-invasion into articular surface, and possibility of early functional exercise in the treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation and fractures of distal clavicle, they are worthy of recommending.