Surgical treatment of chronic acromioclavicular joint dislocation using the Weaver–Dunn procedure augmented by the TightRope® system

Abstract

Variable outcomes resulting from the availability of multiple techniques for the treatment of chronic acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation have led to difficulty in choosing the optimal therapeutic strategy. Accordingly, the authors describe a technique for the treatment of chronic ACJ dislocation and its benefits. The authors present a technique for surgically treating chronic ACJ dislocation using the Weaver-Dunn procedure in combination with a commercially available system (TightRope; Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA). Nine patients with chronic ACJ dislocation were surgically treated and postoperative results were evaluated. The patients were followed up for a mean of 20 months. Shoulder function was evaluated using the Constant score, with a mean score of 97%. Compared with the uninjured side, radiography showed anatomical repositioning in the vertical plane in seven cases and slight loss of reduction in two cases. The procedure provided good functional and subjective results. All patients returned to their pre-injury activity levels. The Weaver-Dunn procedure augmented by the TightRope system appeared to be an effective for treating chronic ACJ dislocation and led to excellent outcomes in terms of return to pre-injury level of function.