Shoulder Surgery

Acromioclavicular Joint Problems

The acromioclavicular joint is the joint formed by the articulating surface of the lateral end of the collarbone and the anterior process of the shoulder blade known as the acromion. The acromio-clavicular joint can become painful as a result of trauma, which may result in subluxation or frank dislocation. The acromioclavicular joint can also become painful as a result of arthritic changes which occur through the normal ageing process or as a result of trauma through sport such as body building, rugby, wrestling etc. Patients with acromio-clavicular joint problems can easily localise the pain using their finger. If conservative measures which include rest, activity modification and painkillers fail then surgical treatment may be required depending upon the pathology. Local anaesthetic and steroid injections may prove beneficial in inflammatory or early arthritic conditions. In well established arthritis then excision of the acromio-clavicular joint may be required

Acromio-clavicular joint instability

Acute repair of acromio-clavicular joint dislocation using a 'Hook plate'