Sternoclavicular joint injuries: a literature review

Traumatic sternoclavicular (SC) joint injuries are rare. The goal of this literature review was to evaluate the available literature on the treatment of traumatic anterior and posterior SC (fracture-) dislocations in adults and children. In adults, anterior dislocations are most commonly treated by nonoperative means. Closed reduction can be attempted but is associated with a high recurrence rate. For posterior dislocations, closed reduction is usually more successful. Children usually present with displaced physeal fractures, as true dislocations probably do not occur in a skeletally immature population. Anterior displacement can easily be reduced but it is difficult, if not impossible, to maintain the reduction. In contrast with the recommendations in adults, ORIF with the use of absorbable sutures can be indicated in these cases. No consensus exists on the recurrence of posterior displacement after closed reduction. If closed reductions fails, operative treatment is indicated, using the same technique as in anterior displacement.