Traumatic inferior shoulder dislocation: a review of management and outcome

Traumatic inferior shoulder dislocation (ISD) is rare, estimated to occur in 0.5% of all shoulder dislocations. We describe the demographics, natural history and outcome of this injury.

The aim of the study is to provide a summary of the demographics, clinical presentation, management and outcome of patients who suffer ISD METHODS: We conducted a systematic review of the English language literature on ISD using PubMed, Medline, CINHAL, Cochrane Database and Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews. Articles were examined independently by two of the authors and data were extracted using a standard form. Descriptive statistics were performed.

199 patients were identified, from 101 articles. Mean age was 44 years (range 13-94 years). All cases were caused by trauma, with falls accounting for 44% of all cases. There were three reported cases (2%) of open dislocations and 29 cases (15%) of bilateral ISD. Proximal humerus and scapular fractures were reported in 39 and 8% of patients, respectively. Neurological injury after dislocation was noted in 58 patients (29%). Vascular injury was noted in 20 patients (10%), which included axillary arterial injury in 19 patients and an upper limb deep vein thrombosis in one patient. Follow-up data were available for 107 patients (54%), with an average duration of 2.7 years (1 week-32 years). Avascular necrosis (AVN) was noted between 8 weeks and 2 years after initial injury in three patients (1.5%).

Clinical and radiographic assessment of ISD is key to diagnosis and successful reduction. Patients can be treated with shoulder immobilisation for 2-3 weeks. In the setting of ongoing pain or instability, further imaging should be performed. The outcome of ISD is generally favourable.