Operative Treatment of Complete Dislocation of the Acromioclaviclar Joint with a Wolter Plate

Purpose : We studied to analyse the results of Wolter plate fixation for the treatment of complete acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Materials and Methods : From September 1999 to August 2000, 20 patients with complete dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint were treated by Wolter plate fixation. The radiologic and clinical outcomes were evaluated by UCLA scoring. The mean duration of follow up was fifteen months. Results : Functional outcomes at the last follow up were excellent in eleven (55%), good in seven (35%) and poor in two cases (10%). The mean preoperative coracoclavicular interval on the injured side was 200% versus the normal side, and after operation this was 15%. In one case of an elderly patient, the plate was removed at 6 weeks due to loss of fixation. Conclusion : The Wolter plate fixation for complete acromioclavicular joint dislocation was considered as one of the effective method. But careful attention should be taken to prevent possible acromial fracture in the elderly.