To evaluate the long-term clinical and radiological results of the operative treatment of the acromioclavicular dislocation with a Wolter plate.

We reviewed clinical and radiological data of twenty patients (mean age: 37 years) who underwent the operative treatment of acromioclavicular joint dislocation using a Wolter plate from September, 1999 to December, 2002 with minimum of five years follow-up (average 6 years 7 months). The clinical outcomes of twenty patients were evaluated by UCLA scoring and radiological results of fifteen patients with available radiograph were evaluated by Zanca view and stress view.

The mean UCLA score was mean 33 points (range, 27~35) at final follow up. By clinical evaluation, twelve cases (60%) were excellent, six cases (30%) were good and two cases were poor (10%). By radiological evaluation, eight cases (54%) were excellent (without displacement), five cases (33%) were good (displacement<5 mm) and two cases (13%) were poor (displacement>5 mm). Erosive change in acromioclavicular joint was seen in poor case.

Wolter plate fixation may be a useful modality for treating acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Great care should be taken to make the hook hole at the appropriate position during operation for long-term prognosis.