Intraoperative and Postoperative Issues With Acromioplasty and Distal Clavicle Excision

Abstract Distal clavicle excision and acromioplasty are common procedures performed either in isolation or in conjunction with other surgical procedures of the shoulder. A thorough understanding of the relevant osseous and ligamentous anatomy of the acromioclavicular joint and coracoclavicular ligaments is imperative to mitigate the likelihood of complications related to overresection. When performing these procedures arthroscopically, the surgeon must maintain adequate visualization and spatial awareness within the subacromial space so as to avoid both under- and overresection of the acromion and/or distal clavicle.