Ultrasound-guided acromioclavicular infiltration

What is Ultrasound-Guided Acromioclavicular Injection?

Ultrasound-guided acromioclavicular injection is an interventional procedure that uses ultrasound guidance to inject analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication into the acromioclavicular joint of the shoulder.
The acromioclavicular joint, formed by the ends of the acromion and clavicle, is a small joint, but extremely important for the movement of the scapula and, secondarily, for shoulder movement.
Pain in the acromioclavicular joint can alter scapular muscle activity patterns and kinetics, resulting in biomechanical changes in the shoulder joint, leading to loss of function and pain.

What are the indications for ultrasound-guided acromioclavicular injection?

• Acromioclavicular osteoarthritis: This is one of the most common causes of pain in this joint, especially in athletes or people who perform jobs involving repetitive shoulder movements.
• Acromioclavicular sprain: After direct trauma to the shoulder, there may be persistent pain in the joint that does not improve with other treatments.
• Inflammatory processes: Injection may be an option to treat pain caused by inflammatory arthritis or rheumatic diseases affecting this joint.
• Persistent pain: It is considered when the pain is severe and has not responded to less invasive treatments such as physical therapy, analgesics, or oral anti-inflammatory drugs.

What is the ultrasound-guided acromioclavicular joint injection procedure?

The ultrasound-guided injection procedure of the acromioclavicular joint is performed in an outpatient setting and lasts 5 to 10 minutes:

• Preparation: A prior ultrasound is performed, anatomical structures are identified, and the entry site is marked on the skin.
• Asepsis: An antiseptic is applied to the skin, and the equipment and the field are prepared under strict aseptic conditions.
• Ultrasound guidance: Ultrasound is used to guide the needle toward the acromioclavicular joint and ensure the medication is administered at the correct site.
• Medication injection: The medication is administered into the joint, and joint capsule distension is monitored.

Ultrasound-guided injection of the acromioclavicular joint is an effective procedure for controlling pain in this joint. It can be combined with drug treatment and rehabilitation to reduce recovery time.

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