Outcomes of surgery for acromioclavicular joint dislocation using different angled hook plates: a prospective study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Sports medicine
• Biomechanical engineering

Background:

• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is commonly treated with hook plate fixation.
• Post-operative complications can impact treatment effectiveness.
• Optimizing hook plate angle is crucial for successful outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of clavicular hook plates with varying hook angles in treating AC joint dislocations.
• To provide guidance for the clinical application of hook plates based on optimal angles.

Main Methods:

• Prospective analysis of 54 patients with AC joint dislocation treated with hook plates.
• Patients randomized into three groups based on hook plate angle: -20° to 0°, 0° to 20°, and 20° to 40°.
• Functional outcomes assessed using Constant-Murley criteria and imaging evaluated implant maintenance.

Main Results:

• Hook plate fixation achieved desired results, with significant differences in efficacy based on hook angle.
• Angles between 0-40° demonstrated superior functional outcomes compared to angles below 0° (P < 0.05).
• No significant difference in outcomes between 0-20° and 20-40° groups; common complications included pain, stiffness, and subacromial erosion.

Conclusions:

• Hook plate treatment is effective for AC joint dislocation, but efficacy varies with hook plate angle.
• Clinical decisions should aim to maintain the hook plate angle within the 0-40° range for optimal results.