AC Joint Reconstruction
When the ligaments holding the collarbone down are torn, the shoulder drops and the clavicle rides up. Reconstruction restores that anchor with sutures, buttons or a tendon graft.
3D Animation (1:08)Watch how an AC joint reconstruction is performed
Watch. Understand. Feel Confident.
1:08AC Joint Reconstruction — 3D Animation
See how the procedure is performed step-by-step in this animation.
1:02Arthroscopic Technique (Real Footage)
For medical professionals: the surgical technique of an AC joint reconstruction, step by step.
For Medical Professionals
1:16Recovery After AC Joint Surgery
Protecting the reconstruction, and when overhead and contact sport are allowed.
Arthroscopic Assisted
Day Care or 1 Night
60–90 Minutes
Anatomic RepairSurgical Steps (Overview)
Injury Grading
Displacement and instability are graded clinically and radiologically.
Joint Assessment
Arthroscopy checks the joint and any associated cuff injury.
Reduction
The clavicle is reduced anatomically over the coracoid.
Fixation
A suture-button construct, with or without a tendon graft, is applied.
Stability Confirmation
Vertical and horizontal stability are both verified.
Recovery Timeline (Step by Step)
Week 1–3Sling full time · No overhead reaching · Pain control
Week 3–6Assisted motion within limits · Sling weaned
Week 6–12Full active motion · Progressive strengthening
Month 3–5Loaded and overhead training
Month 5–9Return to contact and overhead sport*High-grade AC joint injuries — typically from a fall onto the shoulder or a cycling accident — leave a visible step and a weak, aching shoulder in overhead positions.
Reconstruction re-establishes both vertical and horizontal stability. Low-grade injuries, by contrast, are treated without surgery and heal well.
- A high-grade AC joint separation (typically grade III–V)
- A visible step deformity with weakness in overhead work
- Chronic pain or instability after a previous AC injury
- Manual workers and overhead athletes with persistent symptoms
- Grading and imagingWeighted X-rays and examination determine whether surgery is needed
- Timing mattersAcute reconstruction is simpler than chronic; a graft may be needed later
- Sling arrangedWorn strictly for the first three weeks
- Plan work absenceManual and overhead work needs a longer break
The AC joint tolerates a lot without surgery — but a high-grade separation in someone who works or trains overhead will keep reminding them. Restoring both vertical and horizontal stability is what makes it quiet again.
Questions & Answers
Do all AC injuries need surgery?
Will the bump disappear?
Is metalwork used?
How long is the sling worn?
When can I return to contact sport?
Can it come loose again?
Note: This information is for general education only and should not replace a consultation with your doctor.
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