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

ABSTRACT

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.