Acromioclavicular Joint Stabilisation Using the Internal Brace Principle.

Introduction: Injury of the acromioclavicular joint (AC joint) is one of the most common conditions affecting the shoulder girdle in athletes, particularly in contact sports. It is generally agreed that surgical management provides superior outcomes in high-grade injuries (Rockwell Grades IV-VI), with nonoperative management preferred in low-grade injuries (Grades I-II). Controversy still exists regarding the optimal treatment for Grade III injuries, with various sources reporting quicker return to activity and reduced complications with nonoperative management, but superior long-term function and satisfaction in cases managed surgically. Mean predicted return to sporting action in surgical cases varies in the literature from four months to 9.5 months.