Posterior dislocation of the shoulder: report of six cases

Posterior dislocation of the shoulder is a rare lesion. We have seen six of these dislocations in recent years. Review of these six cases indicated that posterior dislocations of the shoulder have consistent causes and physical and roentgenographic findings. Recent dislocations can be treated conservatively with closed reduction. Recurrent or unreduced dislocations can be treated successfully with the McLaughlin technic of open reduction and suturing of the subscapularis tendon into the defect in the humeral head. Our results were satisfactory with either closed or open treatment.