Sternoclavicular dislocation. Treatment and complications

Based on Allman's classification, the authors conducted a critical study on the results of treatment of 17 sternoclavicular dislocations, 14 anterior and 3 posterior. They propose conservative treatment for subluxations and operative treatment for total dislocations, particularly when posterior. Tomography was required for precise diagnosis. The advantages of open reduction are stressed and the complication of intra-thoracic migration of crossed Kirschner wires used to stabilise reduction and capsular suturing is described.