Percutaneous kirschner wire fixation for acute type III dislocation of acromioclavicular Joint

ABSTRACT

Seventeen patients having percutaneous K wire fixation under image intensifier and GA for type III dislocation of acromioclavicular joint [ruptured acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments] with two or three 2 mm K wires were included in this study. The patients were relatively young working men [23-50 years]. A follow up was done up to six months. All patients returned to work within 10-16 weeks. The results ranged from good to excellent according to the radiographic findings, residual pain, range of movement and patients satisfaction. After wire removal in 6-8 weeks, the radiographs showed a maintained reduction in most of the cases [12/17]. Some cases had minor displacement [about half the width of clavicle]; this did not greatly affect the functional outcome. All patients had uneventful recovery, except one patient who developed grade IV pin track infection which was cured by antibiotic. All patients regained a full range of movement of shoulder within 4-6 months. Pain was found only during the last few degrees of abduction in 7/17 patients; it was moderate in 2 and mild in 5 cases