What is Type III Shoulder Separation?

Type III Shoulder Separation (Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation)

- Complete disruption of both AC and CC ligaments; most severe form of shoulder separation

- May cause injury to the deltoid, trapezius, or supraspinatus muscles

- Patient presents with severe pain & significant deformity over the AC joint; there is tenting of the skin as the clavicle is elevated

- Treatment with closed reduction and immobilization in a sling is often attempted, with surgical intervention reserved for cases that fail conservative treatment