title: Evaluation of coracoclavicular stabilization of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation with multistrand titanium cables.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of surgical treatment of acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation with multistrand titanium cables for coracoclavicular (CC) stabilization.
  
  
  METHODS
  Forty-two patients with acute AC joint dislocation, including Rockwood type III 14 cases, type IV 2 cases and type V 26 cases, were operated with CC stabilization using multistrand titanium cables. The cables were removed 3-12 months after surgery. The function outcome was evaluated by Constant scores and visual analog scale (VAS) scores. Radiological examination included bilateral antero-posterior and axillary radiography.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Three patients were lost to follow-up. Thirty-nine patients had an average follow-up time of 42 months (range 34-60). The Constant scores were 95.3 ± 9.3 at final evaluation. Preoperative and final follow-up VAS scores were 5.6 ± 1.5 and 0.4 ± 1.2, respectively (P < 0.05). Radiographs showed anatomical reduction in 32 patients. Cables breakage occurred in two patients.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  CC stabilization with multistrand titanium cables was an effective and safe alternative to other procedures for the treatment of acute high-grade AC joint dislocations. It can provide immediate joint stabilization and allow early mobilization of limb with satisfied functional recovery.
authors: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China.
authors: Tianwen
authors: T
authors: Ye
authors: Yueping
authors: Y
authors: Ouyang
authors: Aimin
authors: A
authors: Chen