Successful Conservative Therapy in Rockwood Type V Acromioclavicular Dislocations

Objectives:Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are common and constitute approximately 9% of all shoulder injuries. Traditionally Rockwood Types IV, V, and VI AC dislocations are indicated for surgery, type III dislocations are controversial, and type I and II are treated non-operatively. Our objective is to determine the success of non-operative treatment in Type V AC dislocations in active duty service members who must continue to do push-ups, pull-ups, bear weight, and wear ruck-sacks among other demanding activities requiring upper body strength in order to maintain current employment and lifestyle.Methods:A retrospective review was conducted using an automated search of electronic patient medical records from March 2007 through March 2012 for patients diagnosed with an AC dislocation in the Tripler Army Medical Center Department of Orthopedics. Patients were excluded who were not active military at the time of injury or who were tertiary referrals. Radiographs were reviewed and comparison was made ...