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Spontaneous dislocation of the sterno-clavicular joint
Acta Orthopaedica Scandinavica
|June 1, 1979
Summary
Spontaneous sternoclavicular subluxation often presents as a neck lump in middle-aged women. This common condition typically requires no treatment beyond reassurance, despite frequent misdiagnosis by referring physicians.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rheumatology
Background:
- The sternoclavicular joint is a synovial articulation susceptible to arthropathy.
- Spontaneous forward subluxation of the sternal end of the clavicle is a recognized condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation and management of patients with spontaneous sternoclavicular subluxation.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges and patient concerns associated with this condition.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis of 22 patients over a 5-year period.
- Clinical examination and patient history were primary diagnostic tools.
Main Results:
- The majority of patients were middle-aged women presenting with a painless neck lump.
- No history of trauma or shoulder dysfunction was reported.
- Diagnosis was evident on clinical examination, with no specific treatment needed beyond reassurance and analgesia.
- Referring physicians frequently failed to make the correct diagnosis, causing patient anxiety.
Conclusions:
- Spontaneous sternoclavicular subluxation is often misdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary patient concern.
- The condition is typically benign and requires conservative management.
- Changes in the sternoclavicular joint are likely secondary to the subluxation itself.