Procedures
Acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations occur when the clavicle (collarbone) separates from the acromion (scapula). This is a common injury in contact sports such as football and hockey, and cyclists who fall over their handlebars. The majority of AC separations can be treated conservatively. Surgical treatment can be beneficial in severe cases.
Clavicle (collarbone) fractures are common injuries in contact sports, such as football and hockey and cyclists who fall over the handlebars. Many clavicle fractures can be treated nonoperatively. Surgical treatment can be beneficial in more severe fractures.
Pectoralis ruptures are relatively rare injuries, with the majority of cases occurring during weight lifting, such as bench pressing. Surgical management of acute ruptures have been shown to improve both strength and cosmesis. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are key for optimal clinical outcome.
Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. They can occur acutely following an injury or chronically as part of an age-related degenerative condition. Multiple treatment options exist and it’s important to consider all factors in order to tailor a treatment plan for each patient.
Shoulder instability generally results from an acute dislocation event or chronic repetitive trauma. Patients often complain of feeling their shoulder being unstable or “giving out.” An MRI will typically demonstrate a tear of the labrum, one of the primary stabilizers in the shoulder. Conservative treatment such as physical therapy can help patients return back to activity. In patients with recurrent dislocations or that are high risk of re-injury, surgical stabilization of the shoulder has been shown to produce excellent outcomes.
Superior Labral Anterior to Posterior (SLAP) tears are injuries that occur on the top area of the labrum. They can occur in repetitive overhead motions, such as throwing, spiking a volleyball or weightlifting or in traumatic injuries. Further, chronic degenerative tearing, often associated with biceps tendinosis, can be seen without an injury. Generally, nonoperative treatment is recommended for the initial management of SLAP tears. In cases of persistent symptoms, surgical treatment has been shown to be successful.