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What is the Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint?

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is one of the joints present within your shoulder. It is formed between a bony projection at the top of the shoulder blade (acromion) and the outer end of the clavicle (collarbone). The joint is enclosed by a capsule and supported by ligaments.

The AC joint is stabilised by the following structures:

Capsular ligaments: These ligaments are called the acromioclavicular ligaments. They have superior and inferior components and resist separation of the joint in the horizontal direction. 

Extracapsular stabilisers: These are ligaments extending from a bony process of the scapula called the coracoid process to the clavicle (coracoclavicular ligaments) and the acromion (coracoacromial ligaments). These ligaments resist vertical forces from separating the joint.

Muscular attachments: The deltoid muscle on the outside of the shoulder and the trapezius muscle in the upper back and neck also help stabilise the acromioclavicular joint.

An injury to the AC joint, particularly the ligaments, can result in instability or separation of the AC joint (shoulder separation) causing pain and discomfort and limiting shoulder function.

What is Acromioclavicular Joint Reconstruction?

Shoulder separation can usually be managed by non-surgical treatments. In cases of a severe separation of the AC joint, your surgeon may perform a surgical repair or use a tissue graft to reconstruct the damaged ligaments. An autograft (from your own body) or allograft (from a donor) of the anterior tibia or hamstring may be used. Your surgeon might also suggest artificial non-absorbable material to graft the damaged ligaments.

The goals of surgery include:

  • Relief from pain
  • Improved shoulder movement
  • Improved strength and function
  • Faster recovery in cases of athletes

Anatomic reconstruction of the AC joint helps ensures static and safe fixation with stable joint function.

Procedure for Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Reconstruction

Acromioclavicular joint reconstruction involves the following steps:

  • The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and regional anaesthesia.
  • A diagnostic arthroscopy may be performed to visualise the position of the tear and extent of the damage.
  • An incision is made to expose the AC joint, and any damaged tissue is trimmed.
  • Tissue is dissected to expose the coracoid process.
  • The graft is passed from under the coracoid process to a hole drilled into the clavicle and the displaced clavicle is reduced.
  • Sutures are used to close the wound.
  • Alternatively, a ligament extending from the coracoid process to the acromion (coracoacromial ligament) may be transferred to the end of the clavicle to reduce it in position.
  • The graft ends are secured to the bone.

Following surgery, your arm is placed in a sling and your shoulder will be immobilised for a period of 6 weeks. You will then require rehabilitation to regain strength and movement of the shoulder joint and can return to your regular activities in about 6 months.

  • NHS
  • The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
  • 
British Elbow & Shoulder Society
  • Swor and D

Hospitals Attended

  • Stratford Hospital

    South Warwickshire
    NHS Foundation Trust
    Arden St, Stratford-upon-Avon,
    CV37 6NX
    Driving Directions
    NHS Secretary: Phae Maxwell

    Ext 4798
  • Nuffield Health
    Warwickshire Hospital

    The Chase, Old Milverton Lane
    Leamington Spa
    CV32 6RW
    Driving Directions
    Private Secretary: Becky Wyatt

  • Warwick Hospital

    South Warwickshire
    NHS Foundation Trust
    Lakin Road, Warwick,
    CV34 5BW
    Driving Directions
    NHS Secretary: Phae Maxwell

    Ext 4798
  • The Grafton Suite,
    Building One

    Stratford Hospital, Arden Street
    Stratford-upon-Avon
    CV37 6NX
    Driving Directions
    Private Secretary: Becky Wyatt

  • The Cherwell Hospital

    Oxford Rd, Banbury
    OX16 9FG
    Driving Directions
    Private Secretary: Becky Wyatt

    (NHS)

    (Private)
  • Spire Parkway (Solihull)

    1 Damson Pkwy,
    Solihull B91 2PP,
    United Kingdom
    Driving Directions
    Private Secretary: Becky Wyatt

  • South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust
  • Nuffield Health
  • 
The Grafton Suite - South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust
  • Swor and D
  • Swor and D