Acromio-clavicular separations treated conservatively. A 5-year follow-up study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Traumatology

Background:

• Acute acromio-clavicular (AC) separation is a common shoulder injury.
• Treatment strategies vary, with immobilization duration being a key factor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term outcomes of acute acromio-clavicular separation treated with minimal immobilization.
• To correlate radiographic findings with clinical results.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 70 patients with acute AC separation.
• Minimum immobilization protocol was applied.
• Follow-up averaged 6 years post-injury.

Main Results:

• Partial separations (37 patients): 24 excellent, 13 good results.
• Complete separations (30 patients): 7 excellent, 23 good, 3 unsatisfactory results.
• Radiographic remodeling and joint stability were noted in complete separations at follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Minimal immobilization appears effective for managing acute AC separations.
• Good to excellent outcomes are achievable, even in complete separations.
• Radiographic remodeling contributes to long-term joint stability.