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Updated: May 18, 2026
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Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis
Published on: February 10, 2023
Posterior sternoclavicular dislocation presenting with upper-extremity deep vein thrombosis.
Pranit N Chotai1, Nabil A Ebraheim
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio 43614, USA.
Orthopedics
|October 3, 2012
Summary
Posterior sternoclavicular dislocation can be missed, but may present with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Prompt diagnosis via CT scan and surgical reduction are crucial for recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Trauma Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Posterior sternoclavicular dislocation is rare and often missed due to subtle presentation and poor radiographic visibility.
- This injury can be associated with life-threatening conditions affecting the trachea, esophagus, or great vessels.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old male presented with arm swelling and pain 6 days after trauma.
- Doppler ultrasound revealed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the left arm and shoulder.
- Contrast-enhanced CT confirmed left posterior sternoclavicular dislocation compressing the brachiocephalic vein, leading to venous thrombosis.
Findings:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) has not been previously reported as a presenting symptom of posterior sternoclavicular dislocation.
- Open reduction of the dislocation successfully treated the condition.
- The patient recovered well with resolution of pain and swelling.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider posterior sternoclavicular dislocation in cases of unexplained upper extremity DVT.
- CT scans with 3D reconstruction are vital for diagnosing posterior sternoclavicular dislocations.
- Prompt surgical intervention is necessary for posterior sternoclavicular dislocations with vascular compromise.
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