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Traumatic Shoulder Dislocation in a Child: A Case Report
Yahia Aloui1, Lassaad Hassini2, Wajdi Chermiti2
1Department of Trauma and Orthopedics, Orthopaedic Division, Sahloul Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia.
Insights
Traumatic shoulder dislocation in toddlers is rare but treatable. Non-surgical intervention, like reduction and immobilization, can lead to successful outcomes with no recurrence, even in young children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Traumatology
Background:
- Traumatic shoulder dislocation is uncommon in toddlers.
- Treatment protocols are often adapted from adult and adolescent cases.
- Recurrence is a significant concern in pediatric shoulder dislocations.
Introduction:
The traumatic dislocation of the shoulder in a toddler is rare and is typically observed in children with neuromuscular issues. The treatment approach for this condition is extrapolated from that of shoulder dislocations in adults and teenagers. The primary complication is recurrence.
Case Report:
We present the case of a 20-month-old infant with no significant medical history, who experienced a post-traumatic pure luxation of the left shoulder. The dislocation was successfully reduced under general anesthesia, followed by immobilization in a short sling for 3 weeks. Four years post-treatment, there was no recurrence, and the shoulder remained stable with complete mobility.
Conclusion:
While uncommon, traumatic shoulder luxation in toddlers should be considered in the presence of functional impairment or abnormal limb posture, and non-surgical intervention is recommended.
