Evaluation and Management of Grade III Acromioclavicular Joint Separations

摘要

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations are common in sports medicine clinics. Acromioclavicular joint separations are classified into five categories, known as the Rockwood classification system (1) (Fig. 1). The treatment strategies for grades I, II, IV, and V are straightforward (2). Considerable controversy exists with the appropriate treatment of grade III separations, however. Grade III separations are characterized by a 25% to 100% displacement of the clavicle relative to the uninvolved side and a complete rupture of the acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments. Data support both surgical and nonoperative management (3).