Acromioclavicular Seperation

About the Acromioclavicular Joint

the acromioclavicular joint (ac joint) is joint that connects the clavicle and scapula. This joint is held together by the acromioclavicular ligaments and the coracoclavicular ligaments.

The Injury

The ac joint can be injured as the result of a direct blow to the top of the shoulder. This will typically occur as the result of a fall, often in connection with some sports related activity, which causes a disruption of the ac joint ligaments. The hallmark clinical sign of an ac separation (separated shoulder) is a deformity at the superior aspect of the shoulder. This deformity is a result of the the scapula sagging as result of it lost connection to the clavicle.

The Procedure

At Regional Orthopedics this injury can be repaired using a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique wherebye the scapula is resuspended from the distal clavicle using a ‘tightrope’. By bringing the clavicle and acromion back into a normal physical relationship and holding this physical orientation constant the torn ligaments are able to heal. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Healing time is 6- 8 weeks for the ligaments to heal after which normal activity can be restored.