title: Results of Arthroscopy-Assisted TightRope Repair of Acromioclavicular Dislocations.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The present study assessed results of arthroscopy-assisted TightRope (Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA) repair of acute Rockwood grade III and V acromioclavicular (AC) dislocations.
  
  
  METHODS
  We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 57 patients with AC dislocations treated with TightRope fixation: 15 Rockwood grade III and 42 grade V. Functional results were assessed using the Constant score, and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and RAND 36-ltem Health Survey scores after a mean 2.6 years of follow-up (range 1.0 years to 4.5 years). Radiographic results were assessed using the AC joint coracoclavicular (CC) distance.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Postoperative radiographs showed anatomical AC joint reduction in all patients. In nine patients, fixation failed before 6 weeks postoperatively, mainly as a result of suture breakage. For the remaining 47 patients, CC distance was well maintained at 6 weeks. At follow-up, mean (SD) CC distance was significantly increased compared to the contralateral side or postoperative radiographs [17 (4) mm versus 10 (3) mm]. Mean DASH score was 9, Constant score was 88 and the RAND 36 score showed a quality of life similar to the Finnish reference population.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Despite initial good reduction of grade III and V AC dislocations using TightRope fixation, subluxation often recurs after 6 weeks. Patients suffer minor subjective complaints that do not worsen the quality of life.
authors: Division of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.
authors: Tapio E
authors: TE
authors: Flinkkilä
authors: Division of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Surgery, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.
authors: Essi
authors: E
authors: Ihanainen
keywords: Acromioclavicular dislocation; arthroscopic surgery; treatment outcome