Bilateral Anterior Shoulder Dislocations with Greater Tuberosity FracturesStudy Design: A Case Report
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Updated: May 15, 2025
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
Jerrin George1, Erika Wilt1, Shivangi Sharma1
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo, College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, United States.
Insights
Bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation with fracture is a rare pediatric injury. Prompt recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent complications like avascular necrosis in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Pediatric Traumatology
- Neurology
Background:
- Bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation with fracture is a rare pediatric injury.
- While trauma is a common cause, seizures can also precipitate this condition.
- Timely reduction of shoulder dislocation is critical to prevent complications.
Introduction:
Bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation with associated fracture is a rare pediatric injury that may occur secondary to different etiologies. While trauma is often cited as the most common cause, this injury pattern can also seldomly occur following a seizure episode. With anterior shoulder dislocation, timely reduction is of utmost importance to prevent potential complications.
Case Report:
We present a case of bilateral anterior shoulder dislocations with greater tuberosity fractures in a 17-year-old male secondary to status epilepticus. Closed reduction of each dislocation followed by surgical fixation was performed. On final follow-up, the patient demonstrated appropriate range of motion with intact strength, motor, and sensory function of both upper extremities.
Conclusion:
Our patient had an uncommon presentation of bilateral shoulder fracture-dislocations secondary to atypical etiology. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of a shoulder dislocation may have devastating consequences, especially in the pediatric population. This includes the increased risk of avascular necrosis if not managed appropriately. In this case, we highlight the significance of being vigilant about the potential complications of bilateral shoulder dislocations while patients are admitted and in critical status. This unusual presentation in a pediatric male with status epilepticus illustrates the necessity for prompt recognition and intervention. Healthcare professionals should remain cognizant of this potential presentation to mitigate potential long-term consequences of failed recognition of this pathology.