How do I manage an acromioclavicular dislocation?

How do I manage an acromioclavicular dislocation?

Whereas the majority of AC joint dislocations can be treated nonoperatively with a trial of immobilization, pain medication, cryotherapy, and physiotherapy, there are patients that do not respond well to conservative management and may require surgical treatment.

What is the treatment for the acromioclavicular joint?

Anti-inflammatory medication and intra-articular steroid injections work well for degenerative changes in the acromioclavicular joint. In injuries that have failed conservative therapy, excision of the distal clavicle can be performed with a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure.

Which treatment should be perform at Type 3 AC dislocation case?

Majority of the orthopaedic surgeons will agree for surgical treatment of types 4–6 ACJ dislocation [2]. As for type 3 AC dislocation both early surgical treatment and nonsurgical treatment initially with late reconstruction if necessary have gained support.

What 3 ligaments stabilize the AC joint?

Coracoclavicular Ligaments: Composed of the conoid and trapezoid ligaments (which do not actually come in contact with the joint). This combined ligament is the primary support ligament of the AC Joint. The Coracoclavicular ligaments run from the coracoid process to the underside of the clavicle, near the AC Joint.

How does a Grade 3 AC separation heal?

Most Grade I – III AC separations are treated successfully with non-operative treatment that may include: ice to reduce pain and swelling. rest and a protective sling until pain subsides. This usually takes about 1-2 weeks.

How do you rehab a separated shoulder?

Shoulder extension (standing)

  1. Stand, and hold a wand in both hands behind your back. Place your hands wide enough apart on the wand so it is comfortable, about the same width as your shoulders.
  2. Move the wand back away from your body.
  3. Hold the stretch for about 6 seconds.
  4. Repeat 8 to 12 times.

What is a scarf test?

The scarf test is used to determine the integrity of the acromioclavicular joint. To perform this test, passively adduct the arm across the body horizontally, approximating the elbow to the contralateral shoulder. The test is positive if the patient experiences pain at the acromioclavicular joint.

What is normal acromioclavicular distance?

In adults, the normal acromioclavicular joint space is 1 to 3 mm wide [16] and diminishes with increasing age [13]. The average distance between the clavicle and coracoid process is between 1.1 and 1.3 cm [1, 5].

Can you see an AC joint injury on xray?

The acromioclavicular joint can be assessed with standard shoulder X-rays. Loss of alignment of the inferior surfaces of the clavicle and acromion indicates disruption of the acromioclavicular ligaments at the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ).

How are acromioclavicular joint dislocations (ACJ) treated?

Management of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations: current concepts Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries represent a common injury to the shoulder girdle. In the management algorithm of acute ACJ injuries complete radiological evaluation represents the key to a successful therapy.

What is ACJ dislocation of the shoulder?

ACJ Dislocations. The Acromioclavicular Joint is usually injured by a direct fall onto the point of the shoulder. The shoulder blade (scapula) is forced downwards and the clavicle (collarbone) appears prominent. The degree of damage to the joint is classified by the joint displacement and injury to the ligaments which support the AC joint.:

What is acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injury algorithm?

Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries represent a common injury to the shoulder girdle. In the management algorithm of acute ACJ injuries complete radiological evaluation represents the key to a successful therapy.

Which surgical techniques are used in the treatment of AC joint dislocations?

Gohring et al compared the surgical treatment of 64 complete AC joint dislocations with 3 techniques: tension band, Wolter hook-plate, or PDS cord (braided). Early postoperative complications occurred in 43% of patients treated by tension band, 58% of those treated by hook-plate, and 17% of those treated by PDS cord.