Long Term Follow up Results of the Operative Treatment of the Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation with a Wolter Plate

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the long-term clinical and radiological results of the operative treatment of the acromioclavicular dislocation with a Wolter plate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed clinical and radiological data of twenty patients (mean age 37 years) who underwent the operative treatment of acromioclavicular joint dislocation using a Wolter plate from September, 1999 to December, 2002 with minimum of five years follow-up (average 6 years 7 months). The clinical outcomes of twenty patients were evaluated by UCLA scoring and radiological results of fifteen patients with available radiograph were evaluated by Zanca view and stress view. RESULTS: The mean UCLA score was mean 33 points (range, 27~35) at final follow up. By clinical evaluation, twelve cases (60%) were excellent, six cases (30%) were good and two cases were poor (10%). By radiological evaluation, eight cases (54%) were excellent (without displacement), five cases (33%) were good (displacement 5 mm). Erosive change in acromioclavicular joint was seen in poor case. CONCLUSION: Wolter plate fixation may be a useful modality for treating acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Great care should be taken to make the hook hole at the appropriate position during operation for long-term prognosis.