The Weaver-Dunn procedure: Treating shoulder instability
The Weaver-Dunn procedure is a surgical technique used to treat shoulder instability and dislocation. During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the shoulder and removes a small piece of bone from the end of the clavicle. The coracoclavicular ligament is then detached from the clavicle and reattached to the remaining bone using screws or other fixation devices. This stabilizes the shoulder joint and prevents further dislocations. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about an hour to complete. Recovery time varies depending on the individual case, but patients are typically advised to rest the shoulder for several weeks and undergo physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion. While the procedure is generally considered safe and effective, there are some risks and potential complications, including infection, nerve damage, and failure of the fixation device.