Titanium wiring for fixation of distal clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular joint dislocation in 37 cases / 中国组织工程研究

ABSTRACT

AIM: To observe the curative effect of titanium wiring in treatment of the fractures of Neer Ⅱ type distal clavicle and dislocation of Tossy Ⅲ type acromioclavicular joint. METHODS: From March 2004 to December 2006, 37 cases with Neer Ⅱ type distal clavicle fractures or Tossy Ⅲ type acromioclavicular joint dislocation were treated with titanium wiring in Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University of Chinese PLA. Titanium wiring (produced by Sofamor-Danek Company in USA) had good histocompatibility, intensity of tension and flexibility. The broken coracoclavicular ligament was repaired directly by titanium wiring in all cases. The outcomes were evaluated according to Herscovici's criteria. RESULTS: All the cases were followed up for 6 to 24 months. All the dislocated acromioclavicular joints returned to normal 2 weeks after operation. Excellent and good rate of shoulder function was 100% according to Herscovici standard. X-ray imaging showed all clavicle fractures united, acromioclavicular joint had no redislocation or titanium wiring breaking. The incisions of all cases had no obvious swelling and exudation. CONCLUSION: When Neer Ⅱ type distal clavicular fracture and Tossy Ⅲ type acromioclavicular joint dislocation are treated with titanium wiring, the acromioclavicular joint can exercise earlier and recover quickly.