ABSTRACT
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is a common source of shoulder pain. Both post-traumatic and primary degenerative conditions are frequently encountered. Primary degenerative changes of the AC joint are common in the aging population and, often, well tolerated. These changes are often seen in conjunction with other shoulder pathology, including impingement syndrome and rotator cuff disease. Distal clavicle excision has long been effective in the management of a variety of painful conditions involving the AC joint. Open distal clavicle excision was first described by Gurd and Mumford, separately, in 1941 (1,2). Since first described, open distal clavicle resection performed, alone, or in conjunction with other reconstructive procedures, has proven reliable in the management of degenerative AC joint disorders.
