[Outcome after late reconstruction of dislocations of the acromioclavicular joint]

In a total of 130 cases with a complete luxation of the acromioclavicular joint (Tossy III) which were treated operatively, there are included 29 cases with older injuries (6 to 28 months after accident). Late reconstruction were regarded only such cases which needed a plastic reconstruction of the lig. coracoclaviculare. An account is given of the 21 cases, followed up on an average of 5,6 years after the operation. The material for the plastic reconstruction was autologous and heterologous tendons, fascia lata, carbon-fibres-ligaments, and especially lyodura. The results are very satisfied regarding to the mobility and stability of the shoulder joints. But there was seen a high rate of arthrosis of the a.c.-joint, which causes are discussed as well as the opportunity to make an osteotomy of the clavicula to degress the pressure at this point. The arthrosis is only painful in cases with a simultaneous instability.