Internal splintage of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation using polyester suture: Experience from a Nigerian orthopaedic hospital

Abstract

Background: Various surgical options have been described for acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) disruption. Dynamic fixation of these fractures is the most favoured option. However, no single modality of treatment has been adjudged to be the best option so far. Purpose: The goal of this study was to present the outcome of internal splintage of acute ACJ disruption using polyester suture without clavicle drilling in our setting. Patients and Methods: This prospective study was done at the National Orthopedic Hospital, Dala, Kano, on those with acute ACJ injuries between January 2016 and June 2021. Forty five patients (36 males and 9 females) had internal splintage of acute ACJ disruption using polyester-5 suture loops around the coracoid process and clavicle without bone drilling. Results: The average age of the patients in this study was 31.51 ± 11.43 years, while the age group with highest frequency was 21–30 years, accounting for 17 (37.8%) of all the patients. The mean pre-operative and post-operative disability (QuickDASH) scores were 80.08 ± 10.75 and 3.23 ± 3.58, respectively. There was a significant difference between pre-operative and post-operative QuickDASH scores with P < 0.001. Conclusion: Internal splintage of acute ACJ dislocation using polyester-5 suture loop without bone drilling is effective and safe.

Keywords

• acromioclavicular joint
• dislocation
• dynamic acromioclavicular joint fixation
• internal splintage
• polyester suture