Acromioclavicular joint avulsion is an injury to the ligaments that stabilize one area of the shoulder joint. The ligaments are usually sprained or torn. As a rule, an accident is the cause of the ligament injury. The prognosis after treatment is good.
Here you will find further information as well as selected specialists and centers for the treatment of shoulder joint sprains.
A shoulder joint dislocation is an injury to the ligaments that stabilize the acromioclavicular joint (AC joint, ACG). Synonyms for shoulder joint avulsion are therefore also acromioclavicular joint avulsion or AC joint avulsion.
In most cases, the stabilizing ligaments are dislocated or torn (rupture) in a shoulder joint avulsion.
Depending on the extent of the injury, a distinction is made between different degrees of severity, which are classified according to Rockwood type I-VI.
The mechanism of injury is usually a fall on the applied arm.
The anatomy of the shoulder shows the bones, muscles and ligaments involved © bilderzwerg | AdobeStock
Simple injuries with dislocation of the ligaments or rupture of the AC ligament(types I and II) can be treated conservatively. Surgery is then not necessary.
In type III with torn coracoclavicular ligaments but preserved muscle fascia and horizontal stability, surgical treatment may be necessary in individual cases.
More severe type IV-VI injuries are usually treated surgically. There are over 60 different surgical techniques.
Aftercare following surgical treatment is usually carried out in an arm sling with gradual increase in mobility.
Full release and weight-bearing are possible after up to 8 weeks.
The prospects of recovery are good after both conservative and surgical treatment. Arthrosis can develop in the area of the ACG as a long-term consequence.
In addition to the general surgical risks,the risks of surgical treatment include the recurrence of protrusion of the clavicle.
