Surgical treatment of chronic complete acromioclavicular dislocation

We treated surgically 14 patients with symptomatic complete dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint. The surgical procedure included reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligament using the coracoacromial ligament as substitute, reconstruction of the acromioclavicular ligament, and imbrications of the deltotrapezius aponeurosis over the top of the distal clavicle. A temporary tension band between the clavicle and acromion was used to stabilize the joint. Two patients were lost to follow-up. Twelve patients were followed for an average of 20 (18-60) months. Functional outcome was assessed according to modified UCLA acromioclavicular rating scale. The results were excellent in eight patients, good in three, and fair in one. In one patient, there was loosening of the temporary fixation with subluxation of the clavicle.