AC Joint Repair
What is AC Joint Repair?
AC joint repair is a surgical procedure performed to repair damaged or torn ligaments and tendons of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. Depending on the severity of the injury, the surgery can be done through tiny keyhole incisions arthroscopically, or as open surgery through a relatively larger skin incision.
What is the Anatomy of the AC Joint?
The AC joint is situated at the end of the shoulder where the scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle (collarbone) meet, at a position on the upper section of the scapula called the acromion. The joint is enveloped by a group of ligaments called acromioclavicular ligaments and supported by coracoclavicular ligaments that attach the collarbone with the front portion of the shoulder blade (coracoid process). The AC joint enables motion between the scapula and the clavicle as you move your shoulder.
What are the Indications for AC Joint Repair?
AC joint repair may be necessary if you have persistent pain or deformity in the joint several months after receiving conservative treatments to heal the AC joint injury.
Robert Najarian, M.D.
Dr. Najarian is board-certified in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. With additional fellowship training in sports medicine and more than 18 years of experience, he specializes in treating the knee, shoulder, and elbow, as well as all sports-related injuries. His area of focus is in the treatment of knee cartilage and ligamentous injury, shoulder instability and rotator cuff repair, and elbow injuries in the throwing athlete (Tommy John Surgery). He has been named a Washingtonian Top Doctor since 2016.
What is the Procedure for AC Joint Repair?
General anesthesia with a nerve block may be administered. To determine whether to use arthroscopy or open surgery, the site of injury will first be inspected. The most suitable repair method will be chosen based on the type of injury. Pins, anchors, straps, or tendon grafts may be used by your surgeon to repair the joint. The common treatment method involves using temporary screws to keep the realigned clavicle in place, and sutures to mend the ligament injuries. The screws will be left in place until the joint heals, after which they will be removed during a follow-up session.
What Does Postoperative Care for AC Joint Repair Involve?
- Your arm is placed in a sling and your shoulder will be immobilized for a few weeks.
- You may notice pain, swelling, and discomfort in the shoulder area. Pain and anti-inflammatory medications will be provided as needed.
- Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamin D is advised to promote healing and a faster recovery.
- An individualized physical therapy protocol will be designed to help strengthen your shoulder muscles and optimize shoulder function.
- You will be able to resume your normal activities in a couple of months.
What are the Risks and Complications of AC Joint Repair?
As with any surgery, AC joint repair may be associated with certain risks and complications such as:
- Wound infection
- Bleeding
- Damage to nerves and vessels
- Thromboembolism or blood clots
- Anesthetic complications
- Persistence of pain
- Hardware failure
- Failure of the grafts
- Need for revision surgery
