Abstract

Background: Weaver-Dunn technique is one of the common methods for treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation. Several modifications of this technique have been already described. Because of shortcomings of the previous modifications and due to the importance of keeping coracoacromial ligament (CAL) intact, we report the preliminary results of a new modification to this technique. Methods: Fifteen patients with acute ACJ were enrolled in the current study. In the modified surgical technique, the medial half of CAL was dissected from the bone and passed through a hole made in the clavicle bone and tied on itself. Preoperative CC distance, constant score and UCLA were compared with those of the last visit. Pain intensity was measured using visual analogue scale (VAS). The patients were followed for 4.2±2.6 years. Results: Preoperatively, CC distance of the injured side was significantly greater than the non-injured side (19.5±1.6 mm vs. 7.1±0.5 mm; p<0.001). At the last visit, CC distance of the operated side was insignificantly greater than the healthy side (8.2±0.9 mm vs 7.1±0.5 mm; p=0.318). Mean constant score was 93.3±13.2 and 95.1±10.8 in operated and healthy shoulders, respec􀆟vely (p=0.118). UCLA averaged 32.6±3.3 and pain intensity 1.4±0.8. Conclusion: Treatment of acute ACJ dislocations using the proposed modified Weaver-Dunn technique is associated with favorable outcomes, while it preserves joint stability and function.

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