Intrathoracic dislocation of the inferior pole of the scapula following thoracotomy

Intrathoracic dislocation of the scapula is extremely rare. We present the case of a 64 year old man who underwent a lung transplant for emphysema via a standard posterior thoracotomy approach. Four weeks later, following a bronchoscopy, he experienced severe pain and restriction of movement in his shoulder. CT scans revealed intrathoracic dislocation of the inferior angle of the scapula. Two manipulations under anaesthesia were unsuccessful and formal exploration required with closure of the intercostal defect. We describe our surgical technique.