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Review
. 2024 Dec 6;16(12):e75197.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.75197. eCollection 2024 Dec.

Unraveling Anatomical Variations of the Acromioclavicular Joint: A Comprehensive Inquiry Into Their Impact on Instability

Charikleia M Skarpeti  1 , Stavros Angelis  1 , Alexandros Apostolopoulos  1 , Dimitrios Filippou  1
Affiliations
Review

Unraveling Anatomical Variations of the Acromioclavicular Joint: A Comprehensive Inquiry Into Their Impact on Instability

Charikleia M Skarpeti et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint, an essential element in the complex biomechanics of the shoulder, displays a diverse range of anatomical variations among individuals. This review aimed to study and present these variations. A detailed search was conducted on the PubMed medical database by using the terms "acromioclavicular joint variations". Initially, 108 articles were retrieved and, after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, only 11 articles were found eligible. Eight more papers were selected from the citations in those 108 papers. As a result, a total of 19 papers and studies were used for the final analysis. This comprehensive review highlights the existence of a wide range of anatomical variations, concerning joint alignment, dimensions of articular surfaces, ligament arrangements, as well as acromion types and joint angles. Gender-related differences in joint dimensions and angles, as well as comparisons between intact groups and patients with rotator cuff tears, are also examined. Delving into the intricacies of anatomical variations is essential in comprehending how these differences may contribute to joint instability. Through a synthesis of anatomical studies, clinical observations, and biomechanical analyses, this narrative review provides an up-to-date assessment of the existing information regarding the AC joint.

Keywords: acromioclavicular joint; acromion; anatomical variations; instability; shoulder biomechanics.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Flowchart illustrating the screening process
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