Surgical Treatment of the Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation Using a Wolter Plate

Chun, Jae Myeung; Kim, Soung Yon; Choi, Jae Ho; Kim, Tae Seong; Kim, Key Yong

Abstract

PURPOSE: To introduce the surgical technique of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation using a Wolter plate and to evaluate its efficacy after surgical treatment.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Twenty-six patients who underwent surgical treatment of the acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation using a Wolter plate and who were followed up minimally for one year were reviewed. We analyzed the clinical results of pain, function, range of motion and radiologic reduction state of the acromioclavicular joint.
RESULTS
All cases showed satisfactory results. By clinical evaluation, twelve cases (46%) were excellent and fourteen cases (54%) were good. By radiologic evaluation, twenty cases (77%) were excellent and six cases (23%) were good. By postoperative X-ray, vertical displacement of the clavicle was restored in all cases. No complications such as infection, loosening of screws, plate failure or redislocation after removal of the plate occurred.
CONCLUSION
Acromioclavicular joint reconstruction using a Wolter plate is believed to be a useful method, which minimizes injury of the joint articular surface and provides enough stability for postoperative rehabilitation.