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An acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation is a common injury among active individuals. This occurs when the clavicle (collarbone) becomes detached from the scapula (shoulder blade). It is typically caused by a direct impact to the shoulder's tip or a forceful blow, often during contact sports. Athletes like football players and cyclists, particularly those who fall over handlebars, are especially prone to AC joint separations.
AC joint separation repair is performed to treat a significant injury to the acromioclavicular joint, where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the highest point of the shoulder blade (acromion). This injury, often caused by falls, sports trauma, or direct blows to the shoulder, leads to pain, instability, and impaired shoulder function. Surgical repair is usually recommended for moderate to severe separations (Grade III and above) or when non-surgical methods fail to restore strength and stability, particularly in active individuals or athletes.
See a doctor if you experience shoulder pain, swelling, visible bump or deformity on top of the shoulder, loss of range of motion, or weakness following a fall or impact injury. Mild AC separations may be treated conservatively, but persistent pain or visible deformity needs evaluation by an orthopaedic or sports medicine specialist for possible surgical repair.
Preparation begins with X-rays and/or MRI to assess the severity of the separation and damage to surrounding ligaments. A physical exam will evaluate strength and function. Prior to surgery, patients undergo pre-anaesthesia clearance and routine blood tests. You’ll be advised to fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure. Instructions will be given on medications to stop, sling usage, and post-op recovery expectations.
AC joint repair can be performed via open surgery or arthroscopically, depending on the severity of the injury and surgeon’s preference.
- Ligament Reconstruction:
Torn ligaments are reconstructed using grafts (synthetic or from your own body) to stabilise the clavicle to the coracoid or acromion. - Clavicle Stabilisation:
Screws, sutures, or tightrope fixation devices are used to reposition and hold the clavicle in place during healing. - Arthroscopic-Assisted Technique:
Minimally invasive, involves smaller incisions and quicker recovery time.
Surgery typically lasts 1 to 2 hours. Most patients go home the same day. A sling is worn for 3–6 weeks, depending on the repair. Total recovery varies but typically takes 3 to 6 months for full return to sports or overhead activity.
- Infection
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Recurrent instability or loss of reduction
- Hardware irritation
- Stiffness or frozen shoulder
- Delayed healing of the joint or ligaments
- Restores normal alignment and function of the AC joint
- Relieves chronic pain and shoulder weakness
- Improves range of motion and shoulder stability
- Enables return to active lifestyle or sports
- Prevents long-term complications like arthritis or deformity
Initially, the arm is kept in a sling to protect the joint. Passive motion exercises may begin within a few weeks under supervision. Physical therapy focuses on restoring motion, strength, and gradual return to activity. Overhead or contact sports may be delayed until complete ligament healing. Full return to sports and strenuous activity is often allowed after 12–16 weeks.
AC joint repair has a success rate of 85–95%, especially in younger, active patients. Most individuals regain near-normal shoulder strength, motion, and function. Early surgical intervention in high-grade injuries leads to better outcomes and lower risk of future joint complications.
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4.9 ( 1 Reviews )
Liv Hospital Ulus located in Istanbul, Turkey is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:
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4.4 ( 5 Reviews )
Indraprastha Apollo Hospital is known for delivering treatment to over 200,000 patients every year; 10,000 of which are generally medical tourists. The efficient team of doctors has the record of 99.6 percent success rate. Indraprastha Apollo Hospital deals in treatment of over 50 specialities.
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Global Health City
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The Hospital has world-class infrastructure with a capacity of over 1000 beds and much more-
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+99Process Involved for AC Joint Separation Repair
- Orthopaedic Consultation: The initial stage is a diagnosis of the type of AC joint separation and determining symptoms as well as changes in a patient's life.
- Physical Examination and Imaging: Full physical examination and imaging is done to assess joint alignment and the extent of ligament damage.
- Non-Surgical Modality of Treatment: Serious injury will require conservative therapy, such as rest, sling immobilisation, and pain management
- Consent: This takes place after fully describing the treatment and risks involved.
- Surgical treatment: The operation may be ligament reconstruction or fixation for significant ligament damage or joint instability.
- Rehabilitation: Following treatment, physiotherapy is prescribed to restore full shoulder mobility and shoulder strength and to retain normal function.
- Traumatic Injuries
- Chronic Instability of the AC Joint
- Arthritis of the AC Joint
- AC Joint Separation
- Hook Plate Fixation
- Bosworth Screw Fixation
- Arthroscopic Fixation of the CC Joint
- The TightRope/EndoButton/Dog Bone technique
- Multiple all-suture anchor technique
- Experiencing severe AC joint separation.
- Patients with persistent pain or instability after conservative treatment.
- Suture buttons
- Allograft implants
- Arthrex
- hook plates
- Ligament Reconstruction
- Distal Clavicle Resection
- Arthroscopic Assessment
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
- Capsular Repair
- Subacromial Decompression
- Improved Seizure Control (fewer or no seizures)
- Improved Quality of Life
- Reduced Dependence on Medications
- Minimal Side Effects
- Enhanced Cognitive Function
- Pain Relief
- Improved Shoulder Function
- Stability of the Joint
- Neurologist
- Neurosurgeon
- Psychiatrist
- Fill out the inquiry form: Fill out the form to provide us with the relevant information about your condition.
- Consult with Our Healthcare Expert: One of our qualified specialists will contact you for a consultation.
- Receive a Detailed Treatment Plan: After examining your situation, we will provide you with a detailed treatment plan that includes expert views and cost breakdowns for various choices.
- Choose your preferred option: Choose the treatment option that suits you the best.
