Acromioclavicular Joint Injuries: Evidence-based Treatment

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Anatomy

Background:

• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are prevalent in athletic individuals, especially young males.
• These injuries often result from direct falls onto the shoulder with the arm adducted.
• Existing literature covers AC joint anatomy, biomechanics, surgical techniques, and rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the clinically relevant anatomy and biomechanical properties of the AC joint.
• To review decision-making principles for treating common AC joint injuries.
• To present an updated summary of clinical outcomes following AC joint treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on AC joint injuries.
• Discussion of anatomical and biomechanical factors.
• Analysis of treatment strategies, including surgical and nonsurgical options.
• Summary of clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

• Nonsurgical treatment is typical for AC joint injury types I and II; surgical treatment is standard for types IV and VI.
• Controversy exists regarding the optimal treatment for AC joint injury types III and V.
• Various surgical techniques are available, including coracoclavicular (CC) screw fixation, ligament transfer, and CC ligament reconstruction.

Conclusions:

• AC joint injuries require careful consideration of injury type and patient factors for optimal treatment.
• Anatomic CC ligament reconstruction can be performed using open or arthroscopic techniques, with or without graft augmentation.
• This article provides a comprehensive overview to guide clinical decision-making and treatment selection for AC joint injuries.