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. 2011 Winter;15(1):66–67. doi: 10.7812/tpp/10-093

Image Diagnosis: Shoulder Dislocations

Shoreh Kooshesh a, Gus M Garmel b
PMCID: PMC3048639  PMID: 21505623

Figure 1A.

Figure 1A

Anterior Shoulder Dislocation, Anterior-Posterior view

The anterior dislocation is characterized by subcoracoid position of the humeral head in the anterior-posterior view. The glenohumeral joint is the most commonly dislocated joint in the body. Anterior dislocations are usually caused by a fall, but can occur spontaneously; they account for approximately 95% of all shoulder dislocations.

Figure 1B.

Figure 1B

Anterior Shoulder Dislocation, Lateral View

Figure 1B demonstrates the lateral view of an anterior shoulder dislocation. Loss of the deltoid contour and squaring of the shoulder is typically present. It is important to assess axillary nerve sensation over the “regimental badge” area and for deltoid contraction, as axillary nerve palsy may occur in cases of prolonged dislocation. Postreduction films should be obtained to look for fracture and confirm proper reduction. A Hill-Sachs fracture is a depression of the posterolateral aspect of the humeral head that is common with recurrent dislocations. Following successful reduction, the patient's arm should be placed in a broad arm sling.

Figure 2A.

Figure 2A

Posterior Shoulder Dislocation, Anterior-Posterior View

Figure 2A is an anterior-posterior view demonstrating a posterior shoulder dislocation. This view shows the classic finding of a widened glenohumeral space (usually greater than 6mm). The incidence of posterior shoulder dislocations is estimated to be 3% of all shoulder dislocations. The humeral head has been described as having a light bulb or ice cream cone appearance on anterior-posterior view, depending upon the degree of rotation.

Figure 2B.

Figure 2B

Posterior Shoulder Dislocation, Transcapular Y View

The transcapular Y view demonstrates the humeral head posterior to the glenoid. Posterior dislocations are caused by severe internal rotation and adduction. The mechanism of injury is an important clue to the type of dislocation. Posterior dislocations usually occur during a seizure, lightening strike, or fall on an outstretched arm. Reduction is performed with gentle traction on the humerus, in addition to gentle anterior pressure while coaxing the humeral head over the glenoid rim. Slow external rotation may be necessary to complete the reduction. Postreduction films are recommended.

Figure 3A.

Figure 3A

Inferior Shoulder Dislocation, Anterior-Posterior View

Figure 3A demonstrates an inferior shoulder dislocation, also known as luxatio erecta. This type of dislocation is rare, with an incidence of less than 1% of all shoulder dislocations. The arm is raised, abducted, and fixed, with the humeral head subcoracoid in position. The patient often presents with their arm resting on top of their head.

Figure 3B.

Figure 3B

Inferior Shoulder Dislocation, Lateral View

Figure 3B demonstrates the lateral view of the inferior dislocation. The mechanism responsible for this dislocation is an axial force applied to an arm while raised overhead or indirect forces hyperabducting the arm. The neck of the humerus is levered against the acromion and the inferior capsule tears, forcing the humerus out inferiorly. There is a high incidence of neurovascular damage, specifically to the axillary nerve and artery. To reduce an inferior dislocation, gentle axial traction on the humerus should be applied in addition to gentle abduction. Countertraction across the ipsilateral shoulder by an assistant during the procedure helps with successful reduction.


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