Comparison of Suture-Button Versus Hook-Plate Fixation for Acromioclavicular Joint Injuries

Abstract

Background: This retrospective study aimed to compare the clinical and radiological results of clavicular hook plate fixation versus suture-button fixation of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations. Methods: 21 patients are retrospectively evaluated in the present study whom diagnosed as type III-V ACJ dislocations and treated by two different surgical methods. The hook plate group comprised 9 patients to whom acromioclavicular fixation. The suture-button group comprised 12 patients to whom coracoclavicular fixation. All patients were evaluated by Constant Murley Score (CMS) and visual analogue score (VAS). Loss of reduction and radiological results were evaluated with the coracoclavicular distance (CCD). Results: The average follow-up was 31 months (range, 15–56 months). There was no significant difference between hook-plate and suture-button groups in terms of CMS. However, VAS in hook plate group better than suture-button group (p = 0.038). Suturebutton fixation adjusted the CCD more than hook plate fixation compared to the opposite shoulder (p = 0.482). Conclusions: There was no statistically significant difference between the hook plate and suture-button group in terms of the clinical outcomes. However, CCD in the suture-button group was better adjusted to the hook plate group. Suture-button fixation is a good option for the treatment of ACJ dislocations, as implant removal may be required in most cases in which the hook plate is applied.