Acromioclavicular Joint Resection
The conventional open surgical technique involves deltoid detachment and reattachment, which may cause postoperative weakness and requires protection during the postoperative period to allow for healing. Arthroscopic acromioclavicular joint resection has the theoretical advantages of no deltoid disruption and a shorter rehabilitation period.
This procedure is done as a keyhole operation and involves removing a segment of bone at the end of the clavicle (collarbone). Resection of a painful AC joint is very effective in relieving pain. The resected AC joint is replaced by fibrous scar tissue that takes the place of the worn out, inflammed joint.