[Dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint]

Dislocations of the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) are among the most common shoulder injuries, particularly in young, active patients. The cause is usually a direct trauma (fall, impact) or a fall on the outstretched arm. Injuries are classified according to the Rockwood system. For diagnosis in the acute case, in addition to clinical examination, panorama and axillary views are essential to assess vertical and horizontal instability. While types-I-II are commonly treated conservatively, types-IV-VI are generally considered indications for surgery. The management of types-III and -V remains controversial. In surgical cases, minimally invasive and arthroscopic techniques are gaining increased importance. Chronic instabilities require biological augmentation in addition to synthetic stabilization due to the lack of intrinsic healing potential.