[Posterior sternoclavicular dislocation: diagnosis initially easy to miss]
Kjell C C J Jaspars1, Kristien Vuylsteke, Jef Peeters
1AZ Monica, Afd. Orthopedie en Traumatologie, Deurne-Antwerpen, België.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|May 10, 2013
Summary
Posterior sternoclavicular (SC) dislocation is a rare injury often diagnosed late. Prompt diagnosis and treatment, including CT scans and proper protocols, improve outcomes for this potentially dangerous condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Trauma Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Posterior sternoclavicular (SC) dislocation is an uncommon injury.
- It is frequently misdiagnosed or diagnosed with significant delay.
Observation:
- Two cases of posterior SC dislocation are presented: one traumatic, one from a fall.
- Diagnosis was delayed by 3 months and 6 weeks respectively.
- Both patients underwent successful SC joint stabilization with tendon allografts.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) scans are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Early recognition and appropriate management are key.
- Surgical stabilization with allografts yielded satisfactory clinical outcomes.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the need for increased clinical suspicion and thorough physical examination for SC joint injuries.
- Highlights the importance of advanced imaging like CT scans in diagnosing posterior SC dislocations.
- Adherence to Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) protocols can reduce diagnostic delays.
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