EXPERIENCE IN ARTHROSCOPIC TREATMENT OF ACUTE ACROMIOCLAVICULAR JOINT INJURIES

Abstract

Purpose of study: to evaluate surgical treatment results in patients with closed dislocation of the acromial end of the clavicle.Patients and methods. Eighteen patients, aged 23-54 years, with acute acromioclavicular joint injuries of IIIIV type by Rockwood were operated on during 2015 – 2018. Surgical treatment was performed at terms up to 2 weeks after injury. Reduction of the acromial end of the clavicle, arthroscopic fixation and stabilization of acromioclavicular joint by TightRope system was performed. Postoperative follow-up was cjnducted in 4 and 6 weeks, 3 months and subsequently every 6 months after surgical intervention. To evaluate the results the Constant Score and radiographs were used.Results.Follow-up period made up 1 year. Functional result, i.e. range of motion and quality of life, by Constant Score was good already on day 14 after surgery and excellent (89.6±2.9 points) at the end of treatment course (2 months after intervention). Brachial plexopathy (reduction of the thumb and 2nd finger sensitivity and muscular force in the early postoperative period) was observed in 1 case. Six months conservative treatment resulted in positive effect. In 6 months range of motion in the operated joint was equal to that in a healthy one.Conclusion.Arthroscopic treatment of acromioclavicular joint injuries by TightRope system is a highly effective and minimum invasive method but requires experience and practical skills in shoulder arthroscopy.