Abstract
Introduction and Aims: Acromioclavicular dislocations and fractures of the distal clavicle present a challenging problem for the treating surgeon. The use of a new specifically designed implant was investigated. A hooked-shaped plate with fixation to the distal clavicle and ‘hook’ placement under the posterior acromion was used.
Method: The procedure was carried out on eight patients. In five patients the injury was a fractured distal clavicle. In three cases an acromioclavicular dislocation was treated. In all cases the time to returning to a functional capacity was analysed. The eventual functional result was indexed from the time of fracture union or complete stabilisation of the dislocations.
Results: All five fractures went on to anatomical union. The three dislocations were all stabilised with no instability or subluxation. In two cases patients complained of impingement symptoms with decreased overhead functional capacity. In both cases the patients regained a full and pain-free range of movement after removal of the implant.
Conclusion: This new implant provides an acceptable alternative in the management of distal clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular dislocations. The complication of impingement is encountered, but this appears to be treatable by removal of the implant after fracture union or joint stabilisation.
These abstracts were prepared by Editorial Secretary, George Sikorski. Correspondence should be addressed to Australian Orthopaedic Association, Ground Floor, The William Bland Centre, 229 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia.
At least one of the authors is receiving or has received material benefits or support from a commercial source.
