What is an ACJ excision?

What is an ACJ excision?

Arthroscopic Acromio-Clavicular (ACJ) excision is a common procedure undertaken to address the symtoms of shoulder pain. Its most commonly performed along with subacromial decompression of the shoulder. The aim of the operation is to undertake a thorough examination of the shoulder joint and the subacromial space.

How long does it take to recover from subacromial decompression surgery?

Recovery From Subacromial Decompression The length of recovery from a subacromial decompression procedure will usually be 1-2 months. However, the sling will be discontinued after a few days to reduce the risk of postoperative stiffness.

What is a subacromial decompression?

Shoulder subacromial decompression (also called acromioplasty) is a surgical procedure to treat shoulder impingement, a common condition that causes weakness in your shoulder and pain when you raise your arm above your head. It is performed using keyhole surgery.

Is subacromial decompression effective?

A surgical procedure for shoulder pain is less effective than previously thought. An increasingly common surgical procedure for shoulder pain, subacromial decompression, was only slightly more effective than no treatment.

Is subacromial decompression the same as Acromioplasty?

Acromioplasty is a surgical procedure that involves shaving away part of the shoulder bone called the acromion. Surgeons carry out the procedure to relieve the impingement of the rotator cuff tendon that supports and strengthens the shoulder joint. Acromioplasty is also known as subacromial decompression.

How does arthroscopic subacromial decompression and AC joint excision work?

Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression and AC Joint Excision. This operative procedure aims to increase the size of the subacromial space. Evidence of inflammation or scuffing on the under surface of the acromion, coraco-acromial ligament and on the bursal side of the rotator cuff (“kissing lesion”) indicates the presence of an impingement.

What do you need to know about ACJ excision?

Arthroscopic ACJ Excision. The operation aims to remove the painful and damaged Acromioclavicular Joint (ACJ) without destabilising it. This may be damaged from injury or arthritis. An Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression (ASD) is often done as part of the procedure as Subacromial Impingement is often coexistent.

How is the Acromio-clavicular joint ( ACJ ) excision done?

The operation involves the trimming of bone from the front of the acromion bone, to increase space for the tendons. If the acromio-clavicular joint (ACJ) is also causing pain then a few mm of bone will also be shaved from the end of the clavicle to decompress the ACJ.

When to remove a sling after ACJ excision?

Wear your sling for a few days for comfort, but you should aim to discard it by the end of the first week. Remove the sling 3-5 times each day to perform the following exercises: 2 weeks onwards: What is the usual recovery? 3-6 months: full recovery.