Question about Acromioclavicular Separation

[mtomaino]

I received this email and wanted to respond, in general:

"I have a grade 2 AC separation that i sustained on July 28 in a bicycle accident. I am 60 and local surgeons say surgery not needed. The bump is no real problem, but since the clavicle is not completely separated the bone to bone rubbing is going to get to me. Any suggestions? Thanks!"

The attached xray reveals that some underlying osteoarthritis exists. This xray shows a bit of superior elevation but there is, as the patient mentions, persistent contact.
So long as the clavicle is not unstable---and this xray suggests that it is not-- persistent discomfort, failing unsuccessful conservative treatment with rest, anti-inflammatories and cortisone, can be addressed with an arthroscopic resection of the distal end of the clavicle.
In my experience, outcome is very satisfactory, and recovery takes as little as 3-6 weeks.
MMT