The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is where the front of the shoulder blade meets the collarbone. A shoulder separation involves injury to the AC joint that damages its supporting ligaments. This can cause the collarbone to move, or separate, from the shoulder blade.
Shoulder Separation
A shoulder separation can result from a fall or direct injury to the top of the shoulder. Pain and limited movement of the shoulder are common symptoms. A visible bump on the shoulder may also result from the collarbone moving out of place.
With a shoulder separation, the ligaments surrounding the AC joint may be sprained or torn. Evaluation by a health care provider will help determine if surgical or nonsurgical treatment is needed.
Surgery for a shoulder separation involves bringing the collarbone back into position to realign the AC joint. A suture implant with metal buttons helps hold the joint together to allow the damaged ligaments to heal.
Surgery for shoulder separation is often performed through shoulder arthroscopy. This minimally invasive technique uses small incisions, a camera, and small instruments to realign the AC joint.
