OBJECTIVETo compare therapeutic effects between clavicular hook plate and tension band fixation for the treatment of Allman type II to III sternoclavicular joint dislocations.

METHODSA retrospective survey was analyzed from May 2000 to September 2008. A total of 31 patients with Allman type II to III sternoclavicular joint dislocations were followed up. Sixteen patients were fixed with the clavicular hook plate (Group A) including 11 males and 5 females, with a mean age of (37.4 +/- 7.3) years. Fifteen patients were treated with tension band fixation (Group B) including 9 males and 6 females, with a mean age of (35.6 +/- 5.1) years. The indexes of intra-operation and during the hospital stay, the clinical outcomes and postoperative complications were statistically compared.

RESULTSAll the patients were followed up for 12 to 37 months, with an average of 20 months. There was no significant differences in data of operative time, blood loss and length of incision between the two group (P > 0.05); however, the economic cost was significantly much more in Group A (P < 0.01). Also, there was statistically difference in the incidence of complications between the two groups (P = 0.023), which were 2 patients in Group A and 8 patients in Group B. According to Rockwood evaluation criteria, in group A, 13 patients got an excellent result, 2 good and 1 poor; in group B, 10 patients got an excellent result, 3 good, 1 poor and 1 bad. There were no statistical difference in good and excellent rate.

CONCLUSIONThe clavicular hook plate for the treatment of Allman type II to III sternoclavicular joint dislocation is believed to be as good as tension band fixation, but there are fewer complications and in favor of early exercise.