Modified Weaver-Dunn Procedure for Type 3 Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: Functional and Radiological Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Traumatology

Background:

• The optimal treatment for type 3 acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation remains debated, with limited evidence on reconstructive techniques for chronic cases.
• The Weaver-Dunn procedure is a common surgical approach, but its long-term outcomes for chronic AC joint dislocations require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the mid- to long-term functional and radiographic outcomes of a modified Weaver-Dunn procedure for chronic Rockwood type 3 AC joint dislocations.
• To assess if the modified Weaver-Dunn procedure restores joint stability and achieves functional results comparable to healthy individuals.

Main Methods:

• A case series (Level of evidence, 4) included 27 patients with chronic type 3 AC joint dislocation who underwent a modified Weaver-Dunn procedure.
• Postoperative functional outcomes were assessed using the Constant-Murley score and subjective patient satisfaction.
• Radiographic evaluation assessed superoinferior and anteroposterior AC joint stability.

Main Results:

• After a mean follow-up of 51.6 months, the mean Constant-Murley score was 90.1 (97.2% of matched healthy controls).
• All patients returned to their previous work and sport activities with high satisfaction.
• Vertical AC joint stability was restored in all but one patient, but horizontal stability was not fully achieved. The complication rate was 7.4%.

Conclusions:

• The modified Weaver-Dunn procedure is effective for achieving high functional outcomes and patient satisfaction in chronic type 3 AC joint dislocations.
• While vertical stability is restored, the procedure does not fully restore horizontal AC joint stability at long-term follow-up.