Purpose : To evaluate the functional and radiographic outcome of the modified Bosworth method in the surgical treatment of acute type V acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Materials and Methods: From June 1995 to May 1998, 20 patients were operated on for acute and complete acromioclavicular dislocation(Rockwood type V). The operative technique includes fixation of the coracoclavicular joint with Bosworth screw or 6.5mm cancellous screw and imbrication of trapezius and deltoid muscles. The average age was 34 years(range, 19 to 51 years). These 20 patients with an average follow-up of 18months, were evaluated clinically using the UCLA scoring system. Additional radiographical assessment was performed with stress radiographs. Results: Excellent or good clinical results were obtained in 95%(19 cases). And the average coracoclavicular interval ratio was decreased from 3.31(2.2-6.0) to 1.13(1-1.4) in stress radiographs. There were 4 cases of heterotopic calcification postoperatively but there was no correlation with clinical result. Posttraumatic A-C joint arthritis was developed in one case. In that case, the distal clavicular resection was done under the arthroscopic technique. Conclusion: The severe displacement observed with type V injuries is incompatible with normal shoulder function if the shoulder is left in its displaced position. In type V injuries, significant damage to the deltoid and trapezius musculature and overlying fascia occurs, therefore open reduction and good fixation must be obtained with imbrication of trapezius and deltoid muscles. In our type V acute complete acromioclavicular dislocation, the modified Bosworth technique provides excellent results with a low complication rate.
