Arthroscopic resection of the outer quarter of the clavicle (distal acromioplasty)

Arthroscopic resection of the outer quarter of the clavicle is recommended when the joint between the clavicle and the acromion (acromioclavicular joint) is painful, most commonly due to osteoarthritis or persistent inflammation despite medical treatment.

The procedure is performed arthroscopically, on an outpatient basis, through small incisions. The surgeon removes a few millimetres from the end of the clavicle (usually 5 to 10 mm) whilst preserving the stabilising ligaments. This creates a space between the clavicle and the acromion, eliminating the painful contact between the two bones.