Tel:01706 869025
emma.shires2@circlehealthpartners.co.uk
www.fixmyshoulder.co.uk
Mr Robin Seagger
MBBS MSc FRCS
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulders Elbows and Sports Injuries
Acromio-Clavicular Joint (ACJ) Reconstruction
Aim:
Reduce pain, shoulder dysfunction or neurological symptoms due to an ACJ dislocation
Synthetic graft used to replace ruptured coracoclavicular ligaments
Surgery type:
Open
Anaesthetic:
General (asleep) usually with a nerve block
Objective:
Incision form end of clavicle (lump) to coracoid process in front of shoulder
End of clavicle identified and trimmed to reduce chance of later arthritis
Clavicle reduced into joint to check initial position
Muscle over coracoid process split and bone identified
Tunnel created under coracoid and length gauge passed around bone
Gauge passed below and around clavicle
Clavicle reduced and graft length measured
Real graft (PTFE/Teflon) shuttled around coracoid and clavicle
ACJ/Clavicle reduced and single screw and washer used to fix graft in place
Ligaments and joint capsule repaired with stitches
Duration:
45-60 mins
Scars:
1- oblique on front of shoulder- approx. 5-8cm
Sling:
As comfortable but usually majority of time for 3 weeks.
Remove for exercises and as comfortable
Aim to wean from sling completely by 3 weeks. Teach axilla hygiene and washing out of sling
Sports:
Non-contact sports and free swimming at 3 months
Contact and racquet sports at 4 months
Work:
Sedentary work- 4 weeks
Physical job- 8-10 weeks
Repetitive over shoulder height work- up to 12 weeks
Driving:
Short distances as pain allows from 3 weeks