Treatment of Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations

Acute AC joint separations are common injuries of the shoulder girdle and numerous treatment options have been proposed in literature. Low-grade injuries (type I and II) should be initially managed non-surgically. Surgical treatment is typically reserved for high-grade lesions (type IV through VI) and, however, might be beneficial in some type III lesions for heavy laborers or high-level athletes. Due to published biomechanical data, there is a current trend toward an anatomic reconstruction of the CC ligaments using suspensory devices. While some reports have shown encouraging results using these techniques, relatively high complication rates have been reported at the same time. Moreover, anatomic reconstructive techniques have introduced a new complication profile including migration of suture buttons and coracoid or clavicle fracture. Therefore, the ideal technique for AC joint reconstruction has yet to be firmly established.