Advanced Shoulder Repair

A new surgical procedure is now available as an alternative to treat shoulder AC joint dislocations and fractures when conservative, nonsurgical methods are unsuccessful.

The new technique — called the TightRope — is used to reconstruct and stabilize the AC joint in a person’s shoulder. The AC joint is made of up two bones, four ligaments, and a meniscus. Without a healthy and stabilized AC joint, pain and lack of flexibility can hinder a person’s performance on the job, at work, or while participating in athletic or recreational activities.

In most cases, a dislocation or fracture can heal without surgery. But some injuries of the AC joint require advanced care.

Dr. Peter Parten, shoulder specialist at Summit Orthopedics, performs the TightRope procedure. “This new procedure is a viable alternative to traditional AC joint reconstruction, which requires a second procedure to remove a screw that is used during the first surgery,” Parten said.

The TightRope procedure can be performed as an open surgery or using an arthroscopic technique. If you are a candidate for this procedure, your doctor will discuss these techniques with you.

If you have shoulder pain, contact Summit Orthopedics at (888) 896-9494.

Read more about Dr. Parten.