Unstable Joint Research Articles

Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Arthroscopic Correlation in Shoulder Instability.

The shoulder is the most inherently unstable joint in the body, prone to high rates of anterior dislocations with subsequent injuries to soft tissue and bony stabilizing structures, resulting in recurrent shoulder instability. Advanced imaging utilizing magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR arthrography allows for thorough evaluation of lesions present in the unstable shoulder and is critical for preoperative planning. Arthroscopic shoulder stabilization in the appropriately selected patient can help restore stability and function. This review highlights correlations between MR imaging and arthroscopy of the most commonly reported soft tissue and bony injuries present in patients with shoulder instability.

Estimating Co-Contraction Activation of Trunk Muscles Using a Novel Musculoskeletal Model for Pregnant Women

Weight gain and stretched abdominal muscles from an enlarged gravid uterus are remarkable features during pregnancy. These changes elicit postural instability and place strain on body segments, contributing to lower back pain. In general, the agonist and antagonist muscles act simultaneously to increase joint stabilization; however, this can cause additional muscle stress during movement. Furthermore, this activation can be observed in pregnant women because of their unstable body joints. Hence, physical modalities based on assessments of muscle activation are useful for managing low back pain during pregnancy. Musculoskeletal models are common when investigating muscle load. However, it is difficult to apply such models to pregnant women and estimate the co-contraction of muscles using musculoskeletal models. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to construct a musculoskeletal model for pregnant women that estimates the co-contraction of trunk muscles. First, motion analysis was conducted on a pregnant woman and the muscle activations of the rectus abdominis and erector spinae were measured. Then, the musculoskeletal model was specifically modified for pregnant women. Finally, the co-contraction was estimated from the results of the musculoskeletal model and electromyography data using a genetic algorithm. With the proposed methods, weakened abdominal muscle torque and the co-contraction activation of trunk muscles were estimated successfully.

Individualizing the tibial tubercle to trochlear groove distance to patient specific anatomy improves sensitivity for recurrent instability.

An initial episode of patellar instability poses a treatment challenge given the absence of a valid, reproducible, and universally applicable predictor of recurrence. Recently, a series of patellar instability ratios (PIRs) were described. Each ratio consisted of the traditional tibial tubercle to trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance normalized to patient-specific measures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability and validity of these novel measures. Eighty-seven patients experiencing a first-time lateral patellar dislocation were identified in a retrospective manner. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies obtained at the time of injury were reviewed. The TT-TG distance, patellar width (PW), trochlear width (TW), patellar length (PL), and trochlear length (TL) were obtained by two observers in a blinded, randomized fashion. Measurement reliability was assessed using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs). Patients were divided into those having a single dislocation (Group 1) and those experiencing recurrent instability (Group 2). The ability of the TT-TG distance and each PIR to predict recurrent instability was assessed by calculating odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Sensitivity and specificity were also calculated for each measure. Excellent inter-rater agreement was observed with ICCs > 0.75 for all patellofemoral joint measurements obtained on MRI. The TT-TG distance alone was predictive of recurrent patellar instability with an OR of 8.9 (p < 0.001). However, the isolated TT-TG distance had the lowest sensitivity at 25.6%. Among ratios, a TT-TG/PL ≥ 0.5 was the most predictive of recurrent instability with an ORs of 6.1 (p = < 0.001). A TT-TG/TL ≥ 0.8 was also predictive of recurrence (OR 4.9, p = 0.027) and had the highest sensitivity of any measure at 94.9%. The results of the current study support the reproducibility and predictive ability of PIRs. While a TT-TG ≥ 20mm was the strongest predictor of recurrent patellar instability, it was a relatively insensitive measure. Sensitivity may be improved by normalizing the TT-TG distance to patient-specific axial and sagittal plane patellofemoral measurements on MRI. Ultimately, PIRs are reproducible measures that may serve as an additional tool when clinically assessing the unstable patellofemoral joint. III.

Four-Year Outcomes of Midcarpal Hemiarthroplasty for Wrist Arthritis

The purpose of this study was to review the average 4-year outcomes of a cohort of patients with wrist arthritis, treated by a single surgeon with a novel prosthetic hemiarthroplasty of the midcarpal joint. We hypothesized that midcarpal hemiarthroplasty would improve range of motion and grip strength of patients with wrist arthritis, with a complication profile comparable with that of alternative solutions for wrist arthritis. We reviewed a series of 20 patients treated with a midcarpal hemiarthroplasty at an average of 4 years following surgery. Patients were evaluated objectively with grip strength, wrist range of motion, serial radiographs, and subjectively surveyed with Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Mayo scores. Range of motion increased by a mean 33° in flexion-extension and 10° in radial-ulnar deviation compared with preoperative range of motion. Mean grip strength improved to 20.8 kg from 14.1 kg, and Mayo and DASH scores also significantly improved. Three patients had a manipulation under anesthesia for stiffness. One patient required open reduction internal fixation of an unstable fourth carpometacarpal joint after falling. Two patients were revised to a total wrist arthroplasty and 1 to a wrist fusion. Midcarpal hemiarthroplasty provides improved wrist range of motion, grip strength, and patient-reported outcome scores compared with preoperative values, with a complication profile comparable with that of other surgical options for patients with wrist arthritis. Advantages of midcarpal arthroplasty include retention of the native distal carpal row, preservation of midcarpal motion, as well as the option for conversion to a total wrist arthroplasty should revision be required. Therapeutic IV.

Biomechanics of the shoulder and elbow

The shoulder and elbow are complex joints with inherent biomechanical features that allow for a wide range of motion, yet stability at the extremes of movement. The shoulder girdle is composed of three bones and five joints, with multiple muscle attachments. It is predisposed to develop a wide range of pathologies if injury or dysfunction disturbs the biomechanical balance. It is the synergistic effect of static and dynamic stabilizers of the shoulder that work to maintain the congruence of what is inherently an unstable joint. The elbow links the shoulder and the hand, and functions as a fulcrum for the forearm lever. It helps position the hand in space, thus allowing the hand to perform activities of daily living. The elbow must be robust enough to allow it to function as a weight-bearing joint, and therefore complex joint biomechanics are required to maintain its stability and function. Many conditions affect the bony and soft tissue structures of the upper limb. This often results in reduced movement and function, necessitating replacement or restoration of normal anatomy. A comprehensive understanding of shoulder and elbow biomechanics is essential to plan and treat upper limb conditions.

Physical and Psychosocial Characteristics of Current Child Dancers and Nondancers With Systemic Joint Hypermobility: A Descriptive Analysis.

Study Design Cross-sectional study. Background The effect of current participation in dance training on joint pain and instability, fatigue, and quality of life is unknown. Objectives To examine differences in joint pain, instability, gross motor skills, nonmusculoskeletal systemic manifestations, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and fatigue between children with joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome-hypermobility type (JHS/EDS-HT) who currently undertake formal dance training and those who do not. Methods Children with JHS/EDS-HT and 1 parent completed reports providing data on demographic variables, symptoms, organized activity participation, HRQoL, and fatigue. Physical and functional measures included extent of hypermobility, aerobic fitness, balance, and muscle endurance. Results Of the 102 participating children, 22 currently undertook dance classes, averaging 3.3 h/wk. While the dancers reported a number of painful joints similar to that reported by nondancers (mean ± SD, 5.5 ± 3.7 versus 6.4 ± 3.9 joints, respectively; P = .36), they reported significantly lower pain levels on a 0-to-10 scale (3.8 ± 3.3 versus 5.6 ± 3.4, P = .04) and found pain to be less problematic, affecting less of their body. They reported fewer unstable joints (1.0 ± 1.0 versus 2.0 ± 1.8 joints, P = .001), despite being more hypermobile (Beighton score, 7.3 ± 1.4 versus 6.6 ± 1.6 on a 9-point scale, P = .047; Lower Limb Assessment Score, 9.2 ± 2.0 versus 8.1 ± 1.9 on a 12-point scale, P = .02). The dancers had significantly better HRQoL in the subdomain of school functioning (P = .004) and reported less fatigue (P = .024). Conclusion Children with JHS/EDS-HT who are currently undertaking formal dance training have fewer joint pain and instability symptoms, less fatigue, and better HRQoL; however, the cross-sectional nature of the study means that causation cannot be determined. Level of Evidence Therapy, level 2b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47(10):782-791. Epub 4 Sep 2017. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.7331.

Traumatic anterior instability of the shoulder

The shoulder is the most unstable joint in the human body. Traumatic anterior instability of the shoulder is a common condition, which, especially in young patients, is associated with high recurrence rates. The effectiveness of non-surgical treatments when compared to surgical ones is still controversial. The purpose of this study was to review the literature for current concepts and updates regarding the treatment of this condition.

Value of Ultrasound for Stability Assessment of Isolated Lateral Malleolar Fractures Compared to Stress Radiography and Arthroscopy

Category: Ankle, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Isolated Lateral malleolus fracture, like any other fractures can be treated by operative or conservative treatment. Stability of ankle joint is the most important factor in deciding the type of treatment. Unstable ankle joints present superior clinical outcomes with surgical management. There are many methods to assess the stability of ankle joint such as plain x- ray films, stress radiographies and physical examination. Many studies have suggested the usage of ultrasound for diagnosis of ankle ligament injury. But, there are no reports about its use for stability assessment of isolated lateral malleolar ankle fracture. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the value of ultrasound for stability assessment of isolated lateral malleolar fractures, compared to simple x-ray, stress radiography and arthroscopy. Methods: We have conducted a prospective study which included 13 consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic exam and subsequent open reduction and internal fixation for isolated lateral malleolar ankle fracture. Before operation simple x-ray, external rotation stress radiographs were done. Stress ultrasound was performed to assess the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) and medial deltoid ligament prior to operation. The arthroscopic findings were used as the reference standard. A standardized physical examination (tenderness and ecchymosis, external rotation stress test), simple radiography, stress radiography and ultrasound images were compared to assess the stability. Results: Deltoid ligament injury and or syndesmosis injury were verified arthroscopically in 12 cases with a clinical diagnosis (92.3%). There were 9 cases who showed unstable ankle fracture on the simple radiography. (69.2%). There were all cases who showed unstable ankle fracture on the external rotation stress radiography. (100%) In addition, for 12/13, there were acute tear of the deltoid ligament or AITFL injury on the ultrasound (92.3%). Conclusion: The results suggest that ultrasound could be used for the assessment of the instability of isolated lateral malleolar fracture.

Radial Distraction to Stabilize Unstable Distal Radioulnar Joint During Distal Radius Fixation

Radial Distraction to Stabilize Unstable Distal Radioulnar Joint During Distal Radius Fixation

Instabilidade anterior traumática do ombro

The shoulder is the most unstable joint in the human body. Traumatic anterior instability of the shoulder is a common condition, which, especially in young patients, is associated with high recurrence rates. The effectiveness of non‐surgical treatments when compared to surgical ones is still controversial. The purpose of this study was to review the literature for current concepts and updates regarding the treatment of this condition.

Ilizarov hip reconstruction osteotomy – A review

Hip joint instability can be secondary to congenital hip pathologies like developmental dysplasia (DDH) or acquired such as sequel of infective or neoplastic process. An unstable hip is usually associated with loss of bone from the proximal femur, shortening, abnormal gait, and pain.Many authors have suggested proximal femoral valgus osteotomy for the treatment of unstable hip joints. Ilizarov modified this technique and performed a double-level osteotomy. In addition to proximal femoral valgus extension osteotomy, he introduced a distal femoral varus osteotomy which would lead to limb lengthening and correction of mechanical axis of the leg. This effectively reduces the limp, improves the abductor lurch and leg length, and provides stability to the destroyed joint.

Peritrapezial osteoarthritis: Inter- and intraobserver reliability of the Allieu classification

The Allieu classification takes into consideration the distal and proximal joints of the trapezium. Trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint arthritis, TMC joint instability (TMI) and scapho-trapezio-trapezoid (STT) joint arthritis are considered independently, which better corresponds to the anatomical examinations. The aim of the study was to evaluate the inter- and intraobserver reliability of the Allieu classification of the peritrapezial arthritis. This was a prospective, single-center study performed from May to September 2016 with 30 cases of primary thumb osteoarthritis. Five raters scored the X-rays twice. In the Allieu classification, TMC arthritis is scored as “0” when the TMC joint is normal, “1” when the TMC joint space is <50% narrowed, “2” when the TMC joint space is >50% narrowed, “3” when the joint space is loose with advanced degenerative changes. TMI is scored as “0” for reducible subluxation, painful and unstable joint, “1” for advanced reducible subluxation, “2” for chronic subluxation <1/3 of the surface, “3” for chronic subluxation >1/3 of the surface. STT joint arthritis is scored as “0” for normal joint space, “1” for joint space narrowing <50%, “2” for important joint space narrowing and “3” for advanced degenerative changes with sclerotic subchondral bone changes. Inter- and intraobserver reliability was assessed using the weighted Cohen's kappa coefficient. Additional analyses were undertaken to determine the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the overall raters. The interobserver reliability was “moderate” to “substantial” for the TMC arthritis; “fair” to “substantial” for STT arthritis and “fair” to “substantial” for TMI. The intraobserver reliability was “moderate” to “excellent” for TMC arthritis (2 “excellent”, 2 “substantial”, 1 “moderate”); “fair” to “excellent” for the STT (1 “excellent”, 2 “substantial”, 1 “moderate”, 1 “fair”) and “fair” to “excellent” for the TMI (1 “excellent”, 2 “substantial”, 1 “moderate”, 1 “fair”). The worst reliability, either for intra- or interobserver, was for TMI. The ICC for TMC arthritis was 0.67 (95%CI, 0.28–0.83); for STT it was 0.47 (95%CI, 0.15–0.66) and for TMI it was 0.30 (95%CI, 0.23–0.70), which is “fair”. This study confirms a large variation in X-ray staging for peritrapezial arthritis. It shows that the Allieu classification is moderately reliable. However, the interobserver reliability was better for evaluating the TMC than the STT and worse for TMI. The classification for TMC and STT is simple to apply, based principally on the joint narrowing. The intraobserver is better than the interobserver reliability.

Iatrogenic Hip Instability Treated With Periacetabular Osteotomy.

Hip dislocation following hip arthroscopy is a devastating complication. Previous reports of arthroscopy-related iatrogenic instability have focused on strategies aimed at restoring the stabilizing effects of the hip joint capsuloligamentous complex. Less has been written about treatment options for patients in whom deficient acetabular coverage of the femoral head is implicated in the functionally unstable hip joint. Given this relative paucity of information, an optimal treatment approach has yet to be elucidated for these patients. Periacetabular osteotomy has been described as a treatment for iatrogenic hip instability related to surgical hip dislocation; however, to our knowledge, this is the first case of a patient with hip arthroscopy-related iatrogenic instability manifesting as recurrent, frank dislocations treated with periacetabular osteotomy.

Short-term outcomes of arthroscopic tightrope® fixation are better than hook plate fixation in acute unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocations

The aim of this study was to compare the short-term outcomes of arthroscopic TightRope® fixation with that of hook plate fixation in patients with acute unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocations. We conducted a prospective case–control study of twenty-six patients with an acute ACJ dislocation who underwent surgical repair with either an arthroscopic TightRope® fixation or a hook plate from 2013 to 2016. Clinical and radiological data were collected prospectively. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Constant Score, the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score, Oxford Shoulder Score as well as the visual analogue scale. Radiological outcomes were assessed with the coracoclavicular distance (CCD). Sixteen patients underwent arthroscopic TightRope® fixation, while 10 patients underwent hook plate fixation. There were no significant differences in the preoperative variables except for the mean UCLA 4b infraspinatus score (TightRope® 2.8 vs. hook plate 3.8; p = 0.030). Duration of surgery was significantly longer in the TightRope® group. At 1 year post-operatively, the TightRope® group had a significantly better Constant Score and CCD with no complications. All patients with hook plate fixation had to undergo a second procedure for removal of implant, and 3 patients had complications. Arthroscopic TightRope® fixation is a good option for the treatment of acute unstable ACJ dislocations. It has better short-term clinical and radiological outcomes as well as lesser complications when compared to hook plate fixation. Therapeutic, Level III.

Three-Dimensional Biomechanical Analysis of Rearfoot and Forefoot Running.

Background:In the running community, a forefoot strike (FFS) pattern is increasingly preferred compared with a rearfoot strike (RFS) pattern. However, it has not been fully understood which strike pattern may better reduce adverse joint forces within the different joints of the lower extremity.Purpose:To analyze the 3-dimensional (3D) stress pattern in the ankle, knee, and hip joint in runners with either a FFS or RFS pattern.Study Design:Descriptive laboratory study.Methods:In 22 runners (11 habitual rearfoot strikers, 11 habitual forefoot strikers), RFS and FFS patterns were compared at 3.0 m/s (6.7 mph) on a treadmill with integrated force plates and a 3D motion capture analysis system. This combined analysis allowed characterization of the 3D biomechanical forces differentiated for the ankle, knee, and hip joint. The maximum peak force (MPF) and maximum loading rate (LR) were determined in their 3 ordinal components: vertical, anterior-posterior (AP), and medial-lateral (ML).Results:For both strike patterns, the vertical components of the MPF and LR were significantly greater than their AP or ML components. In the vertical axis, FFS was generally associated with a greater MPF but significantly lower LR in all 3 joints. The AP components of MPF and LR were significantly lower for FFS in the knee joint but significantly greater in the ankle and hip joints. The ML components of MPF and LR tended to be greater for FFS but mostly did not reach a level of significance.Conclusion:FFS and RFS were associated with different 3D stress patterns in the ankle, knee, and hip joint, although there was no global advantage of one strike pattern over the other. The multimodal individual assessment for the different anatomic regions demonstrated that FFS seems favorable for patients with unstable knee joints in the AP axis and RFS may be recommended for runners with unstable ankle joints.Clinical Relevance:Different strike patterns show different 3D stress in joints of the lower extremity. Due to either rehabilitation after injuries or training in running sports, rearfoot or forefoot running should be preferred to prevent further damage or injuries caused by inadequate biomechanical load. Runners with a history of knee joint injuries may benefit from FFS whereas RFS may be favorable for runners with a history of ankle joint injuries.

Fixation of greater tuberosity fracture in rare unstable bilateral glenohumeral joint dislocations with bilateral fractures of the greater tuberosities: A case report

Introduction: Unstable dislocations of the bilateral glenohumeral joint with fractures of both greater tuberosities are very rare.Case presentation: A 48-year-old gentleman sustained a bilateral anterior dislocation of his glenohumeral joint with fractures of the greater tuberosities on both sides after an episode of seizure. Attitude of both shoulders were abducted and externally rotated. Radiological examination revealed the dislocations of bilateral glenohumeral joint and also the fractures of the bilateral greater tuberosities. Closed reduction and shoulder derotation immobilizer was applied. The Reduction was unstable and needed fixation of both sides greater tuberosity with cannulated cancellous screws. The shoulders were immobilized for 3 weeks and subsequent rehabilitation yielded a good outcome. Results at 6 months follow-up were satisfactory with normal range of motion and no redislocations occurring. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of bilateral unstable glenohumeral joint dislocation associated with fractures of both greater tuberosities in a middle aged man which was unstable needing fixation of greater tuberosities fractures.Conclusion: Bilateral glenohumeral joint dislocations with bilateral fractures of the greater tuberosities may be unstable needing fixation of greater tuberosity fracture.Health Renaissance 2015;13(2): 173-177

Efficacy analysis of a novel sternoclavicular hook plate for treatment of unstable sternoclavicular joint dislocation or fracture.

Sternoclavicular joint is an amphiarthrodial joint formed by the clavicle and sternal manubrium. This joint becomes chronically unstable in case of a medial clavicle dislocation or fracture, and improper treatment could cause malformation and pain. We aimed to determine the efficacy of a novel sternoclavicular hook plate for treatment of unstable sternoclavicular joint dislocation or fracture. Between June 2011 and December 2013, the sternoclavicular hook plate was used to surgically treat 32 adult patients with unstable sternoclavicular joint dislocation or fracture. Of these, 12 and 5 patients suffered from anterior and posterior dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint, respectively, 10 had medial clavicle fracture, and 5 had fracture dislocation. For anterior fracture dislocation, the standard sternoclavicular hook plate was used, while for the posterior dislocation, screws were added at the distal end of the hook plate, anterior to the sternal manubrium, to prevent postoperative redislocation. No intraoperative complications were observed during the procedure. Postoperative X-ray and computed tomography revealed normal anatomical positions of sternoclavicular joints and excellent positions of internal fixation. About 3-6 months after surgery, all patients achieved primary healing without redislocation of the sternoclavicular joint along with satisfactory restoration of anatomical structures of the medial clavicle; nine patients had swelling but no pain around the sternoclavicular joints. Internal fixation was removed in 29 patients 6-12 months postoperatively and no sequelae were observed. This novel sternoclavicular hook plate demonstrated excellent efficacy and could provide a reliable therapeutic approach for this kind of trauma.

Clinical forms of shoulder instability in pediatric patients

Background. The recurrence rate of adolescent chronic shoulder instability is approximately 56%–68%. However, this pathology is often missed in childhood and adolescence.Aim. To identify the clinical forms of shoulder joint instability in pediatric patients.Materials and methods. The authors present the data from 57 pediatric patients aged 3−17 years with a total of 61 unstable shoulder joints. All patients were divided into groups according to the form of instability. Traumatic chronic shoulder instability was identified in 40 patients (Bankart and Hill–Sachs injuries). Of these, non-traumatic shoulder instability was diagnose in 17, including five with recurrent dislocation, and spontaneous shoulder dislocation due to dysplasia of glenoid and labrum was diagnosed in 12. Of the 57 patients in the study cohort, 53 underwent surgery. Postoperatively, two patients developed recurrent shoulder dislocation (Andreev–Boichev technique) due type III shoulder dysplasia in the first patient and multidirectional injury in the second.Conclusions. Shoulder joint instability should be considered as the traumatic or non-traumatic form. Treatment decisions should be based on anatomical characteristics that predispose to recurrent dislocation.

Diagnostic modalities for distal radioulnar joint.

The first imaging modality in patients suspected of distal radioulnar joint pathology should be conventional radiography to exclude or diagnose wrist pathology including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease, (healed) fractures, or impaction syndromes. When conventional radiography is inconclusive, high resolution 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging is advised. We provide a broad overview of the literature regarding the use of intra-articular contrast both with computed tomography (CTA) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRA). Conventional arthrography and unenhanced computed tomography are not indicated. This article discusses the most useful imaging techniques in terms of clinical indications, patient positioning, technical imaging requirements, and diagnostic performance in patients with suspected distal radioulnar joint pathology. Furthermore, the most prevalent pathologies are discussed, with the focus on imaging characteristics in both stable and unstable distal radioulnar joints.

A new type sternoclavicular hook plate for unstable sternoclavicular joint dislocation and fracture

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of a new type sternoclavicular hook plate fixation in treating unstable sternoclavicular joint dislocation and fracture. From June 2011 to December 2013, 32 patients with sternoclavicular joint dislocation and fracture were treated with a new type sternoclavicular hook plate fixation, including 24 males and 8 females with an average age of 42 years ranging from 25 to 76 years;12 patients were anterior dislocation, 5 pations were posterior dislocation, 10 patients were internal extremity of clavicle fracture and 5 patients were sternoclavicular joint dislocation combined with fracture. The anterior fracture dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint adopted standard sternoclavicular joint hook plate, and the posterior dislocation was at the distal end of the hook of the steel plate, that is, the front part of the handle of the breast was added with a nut and a gasket to prevent the re-dislocation after operation. The results were evaluated according to Rockwood score. No complication happened in all patients. X-ray and CT showed that the dislocation and fracture of the sternoclavicular joint was well reduced and the plate was on right position. All patients were followed up for 6 to 24 months with an average of 10 months. At 6 to 3 months after operation, the fracture was healing without re-dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint, the medial end of the clavicle anatomical structure were restored, functional satisfaction, in which 9 patients with the swelling around sternoclavicular joint, but no pain and other symptoms. The total Rockwood score was 12.78±1.43; the results were excellent in 24 cases, good in 8 cases. The use of the new type of locking hook plate for the treatment of unstable fracture of the sternoclavicular joint, internal fixation is reliable, high security, easy to operate, to provide a reliable method for the treatment of such trauma.