Osteoarthritis of the joint between the collarbone and the shoulder blade can cause pain when moving the shoulder and impair daily functioning. If nonsurgical treatment does not provide sufficient relief, an AC joint resection may be an option. The purpose of the surgery is to reduce pain and improve shoulder function by removing the worn-out part of the joint.
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Osteoarthritis of the AC joint is a degenerative condition affecting the joint between the collarbone and the acromion, which is part of the shoulder blade. This condition can cause pain at the top of the shoulder, especially when lifting above shoulder height or during activities that involve moving the arm across the body. If the pain persists despite non-surgical treatment, surgery may be the right solution.
Treatment depends on your symptoms and the severity of your osteoarthritis. Many people may initially benefit from pain medication, physical therapy, or rest. If the symptoms persist and affect your daily life, an AC joint resection may be recommended. During the surgery, a small portion of the outer end of the clavicle is removed so that the painful, worn joint is no longer subjected to stress. The goal is to reduce pain and improve shoulder function. One year after surgery, up to 80% of patients have experienced a reduction in pain or are pain-free. Shoulder mobility is also usually restored to normal.
Before the surgery, you will be examined by a specialist who will assess your symptoms and examine your shoulder. If the pain is caused by osteoarthritis of the AC joint and non-surgical treatment has not had the desired effect, surgery may be the right solution. During the preoperative evaluation, the surgeon will explain the procedure and the expected course of treatment.
During the surgery, the outer part of the collarbone is removed via arthroscopy through 2–3 small incisions around the shoulder. This creates space in the joint so that the worn joint surfaces no longer rub against each other and cause pain. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
The pain usually subsides gradually after surgery. One year after surgery, up to 80% of patients have experienced significant pain relief or are pain-free, and shoulder mobility has usually returned to normal. Rehabilitation is an important part of treatment, and you will be given an exercise program to follow after surgery.
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