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Acromioclavicular joint injuries
1Hughston Clinic PC, Columbus, GA 31908-9517, USA.
Journal of the Southern Orthopaedic Association
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Acromioclavicular joint injuries are classified into six grades. While lower grades are nonoperative and higher grades surgical, grade III treatment and distal clavicle fracture management require further consideration.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Traumatology
Background:
- Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries, including sprains and dislocations, are frequent shoulder ailments.
- These injuries are categorized into six grades based on ligamentous disruption and displacement.
- Distal clavicle fractures are classified into three distinct types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the current classification system for acromioclavicular joint injuries.
- To discuss the general treatment principles for different grades of AC joint injuries.
- To review the classification and management strategies for distal clavicle fractures.
Main Methods:
- Review of the established grading system for acromioclavicular joint injuries.
- Analysis of treatment paradigms for each injury grade.
- Examination of distal clavicle fracture classification and associated treatment recommendations.
Main Results:
- Grades I and II AC joint injuries typically receive nonoperative management.
- Grades IV, V, and VI AC joint injuries generally necessitate surgical intervention.
- Type I distal clavicle fractures are stable and managed nonoperatively; Type II requires surgical fixation; Type III may need delayed surgery for arthritis.
Conclusions:
- The management of acromioclavicular joint injuries follows a graded approach, with grade III remaining a point of clinical debate.
- Distal clavicle fracture treatment varies by type, with instability often indicating surgical necessity.
- Understanding these classifications is crucial for effective orthopaedic management of shoulder girdle trauma.