An AC joint reconstruction surgery may be recommended if you have experienced a severe grade III injury to the AC joint, where the ligaments are completely torn. In such cases, conservative treatments may not be sufficient to promote healing and alleviate prolonged pain.
While minor injuries to the AC joint can often heal well without the need for surgery, severe injuries necessitate reconstruction. This surgical procedure aims to restore stability and function to the joint by repairing or reconstructing the damaged ligaments. But is it safe? Find out in this guide.
Is AC Joint Surgery Risky?
AC joint reconstruction is generally safe. However, like any surgical procedure, AC joint surgery carries certain risks and potential complications.
The complication rates of AC joint surgery range from around 5% to 30%, depending on the specific type of surgery involved. A 2020 study involving 29 individuals with grade 3 to 5 AC joint injuries reported a complication rate of 17%.
The reported complications included bone loss (osteolysis), infection, implant failure, and collarbone fracture. These complications are relatively rare.
Other than the complications mentioned above, there are other potential risks you should know about before consenting to the procedure. These include;
There is a risk of excessive bleeding during AC joint surgery. There are several factors that may cause excessive bleeding during an AC joint reconstruction surgery. The most common ones include
The good news is that there are several precautions your orthopaedic surgeon can take to minimize excessive bleeding during your AC joint reconstruction surgery. For example, they can adopt a careful cauterization of blood vessels.
This involves burning of bleeding blood vessels to decrease or stop bleeding. They may also use specialized techniques, and in extreme cases, turn to additional interventions like blood transfusions or haemostatic agents. These may be required to control bleeding if the general precautions aren't so effective.
Calcification refers to the formation of calcium deposits within the joint. This cannot only lead to pain but also reduced range of motion. The exact cause of calcification is not fully understood.
However, it can be influenced by factors like inflammation and your body's healing response. To reduce the risks of calcification to the joint after your AC reconstruction surgery, your ortho surgeon may recommend physical therapy. They may also recommend rehabilitation to manage calcification and restore your joint function.
While rare, severe reactions to anaesthesia can occur during AC joint surgery. Anaesthesia is administered to ensure that you remain pain-free.
It also makes you unconscious throughout the procedure. But there is still a small risk of complications like;
To avoid or manage this risk, a good orthopaedic surgeon will work with a team that is also made up of skilled anaesthesiologists. Now, anaesthesiologists are highly trained professionals who carefully monitor patients during surgery. This can help minimize the risk of complications and promptly address any adverse reactions.
Surgeries, including AC joint surgery, can increase your risks of developing blood clots. Blood clots may form in the deep veins of the legs.
If a blood clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can cause a potentially life-threatening condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE).
To avoid or manage these risks, there are a few things your ortho surgeon may recommend or do. Key among these includes;
Who is a Good Candidate for AC Joint Surgery?
AC joint surgery may be recommended for you if you have a severe AC joint injury. This injury may be characterized by significant bone displacement or complete tearing of the ligaments.
However, there are several factors that surgeons consider before reaching this decision. Here are the key issues your orthopaedic surgeon will look consider;
AC joint surgery is typically performed for severe injuries where there is a major bone displacement or complete ligament tear. These injuries may be due to issues like trauma for example, sports-related accidents or falls.
For diagnosis, surgeons use X-rays and other imaging tests to assess the extent of the injury. If the injury is not severe enough to cause bone displacement or complete ligament tear, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments. Some of the most effective alternative treatments include;
As mentioned, prior to considering surgery, doctors often recommend conservative treatments for AC joint injuries. These approaches include rest, ice, pain medications, and physical therapy.
However, surgery may be considered if the injury fails to improve or heal adequately with these methods. This is important because surgery is generally reserved for cases where conservative approaches have been ineffective. Ideally, it may only be recommended if your symptoms persist or worsen over time.
Your overall health and medical history also play a crucial role in determining if you're a good candidate for AC joint surgery. This is important because there are medical conditions that may increase your risks of complications. These include;
Also, your doctor will consider any previous surgeries or complications related to anaesthesia. It is important that you discuss medical history with the doctor.
Be honest in answering all the questions including any medications you are taking. This way, it will be easier for your surgeon to ensure the procedure can be performed safely.
The Bottom Line
An AC Joint Reconstruction surgery can help you achieve the best results if you're a good candidate for the procedure. So, before undergoing AC joint surgery, have a detailed discussion with your orthopaedic surgeon.
They will explain the potential risks, assess your specific case, and determine the most appropriate course of action. Carefully consider the benefits and risks with them to make an informed decision regarding AC joint surgery and ensure the best possible outcome. To book a consultation with an experienced and caring team in Singapore, call or visit us at;
Artisan Sports & Orthopaedics Surgery
290 Orchard Road,
Paragon Medical Centre #07-12,
Singapore 238859.
