Distal Clavicle Excision

If you need a Distal Clavicle Excision, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Distal Clavicle Excision?

An orthopedic surgeon performs a distal clavicle excision, also known as a distal clavicle resection or Mumford procedure. Additionally, addressing the certain conditions affecting the outer end of the clavicle, commonly referred to as the collarbone. This surgical intervention involves the removal of a portion of the distal clavicle to alleviate pain and restore function.

Conditions such as acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis, AC joint osteolysis, or AC joint impingement often necessitate a distal clavicle excision. This is due to resulting pain, inflammation, and limited shoulder mobility, especially during overhead activities.

Distal Clavicle Excision Benefits

Distal clavicle excision offers several significant benefits. Particularly, for individuals experiencing shoulder pain and dysfunction due to conditions like arthritis or impingement syndrome. By surgically removing a small portion of the distal end of the clavicle, this procedure alleviates pain and reduces inflammation in the acromioclavicular (AC) joint.

Patients often experience a notable improvement in shoulder mobility and function after the procedure. The reduction in pain allows for a greater range of motion, enabling individuals to perform daily activities and engage in physical exercises more comfortably.

Additionally, the procedure can prevent further degeneration of the AC joint, minimizing the risk of future complications. Distal clavicle excision is typically less invasive than other shoulder surgeries, leading to a shorter recovery time and less post-operative discomfort.

Overall, this procedure enhances the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic shoulder issues by providing lasting pain relief, improved joint function, and a quicker return to normal activities.

Distal Clavicle Excision Procedure 

During the procedure, the surgeon typically makes a small incision over the distal end of the clavicle, identifies the affected portion, and carefully removes it using specialized instruments. The extent of clavicle removal varies based on the specific condition and the surgeon’s evaluation.

By removing the distal clavicle, the procedure helps reduce pain and alleviate impingement or friction between the clavicle and adjacent structures. Some structures include the acromion or the shoulder joint capsule. Following the procedure, rehabilitation and physical therapy are recommended to restore shoulder strength, flexibility, and function. This may involve exercises to enhance range of motion, strengthen shoulder muscles, and facilitate healing.

While this procedure is generally safe with minimal risks, potential complications include infection, bleeding, nerve or blood vessel damage, persistent pain, shoulder instability, or nonunion. Consulting with an orthopedic surgeon is crucial to evaluate the specific condition and determine the most suitable treatment approach, which may or may not include a distal clavicle excision. Various factors, including the condition’s severity, presence of other shoulder issues, and individual circumstances, inform the personalized treatment plan.

Distal Clavicle Excision Recovery

Recovery from distal clavicle excision involves several stages to ensure proper healing and restore shoulder function. Immediately after surgery, patients often experience some discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and ice therapy. Resting the shoulder and avoiding strenuous activities are crucial during the initial recovery period.

Physical therapy plays a vital role in the rehabilitation process. A physical therapist will design a customized exercise program to gradually improve shoulder strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Adhering to this program is essential for achieving optimal recovery outcomes.

Patients typically begin with gentle range-of-motion exercises before progressing to strengthening exercises. As healing progresses, patients can gradually resume normal activities, although high-impact or strenuous activities should be avoided until fully healed.

Follow-up appointments with the surgeon help monitor recovery progress and address any concerns. With proper care and rehabilitation, most individuals can expect to regain significant shoulder function and enjoy long-term pain relief.

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