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Anterior Shoulder Dislocation Complicated by Hill-Sachs Lesion
Nofel Iftikhar1, Thor S Stead2, Latha Ganti3,4,5,6
1Emergency Medicine, Trinity Preparatory School, Winter Park, USA.
Cureus
|September 13, 2021
Summary
A fall caused an anterior shoulder dislocation with a Hill-Sachs lesion in a 60-year-old woman. Prompt treatment involving reduction, immobilization, and orthopedic consultation is crucial for managing this complex shoulder injury.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Traumatology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Anterior shoulder dislocation (SD) is a common injury.
- Hill-Sachs lesions, an impaction fracture of the humeral head, can complicate SD management.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are vital for optimal shoulder function.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old woman sustained an anterior shoulder dislocation after falling on her left shoulder.
- Imaging revealed an associated Hill-Sachs lesion, a common complication of shoulder instability.
- The patient presented to a local restaurant at the time of injury.
Findings:
- The presence of a Hill-Sachs lesion complicates the standard treatment protocol for anterior shoulder dislocation.
- Effective management requires prompt closed reduction and acute immobilization.
- Timely orthopedic surgery consultation is essential for addressing the underlying instability and preventing recurrence.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis of Hill-Sachs lesions is critical for appropriate treatment planning in shoulder dislocations.
- A multidisciplinary approach involving emergency care and orthopedic specialists improves patient outcomes.
- Understanding the biomechanics of shoulder injuries aids in developing targeted prevention and rehabilitation strategies.

