Neurovascular injuries to the shoulder complex

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Neurology

Background:

• The shoulder complex's anatomy predisposes it to neurovascular injuries.
• These injuries, affecting the brachial plexus and axillary vessels, can accompany musculoskeletal trauma or occur in isolation.
• While permanent deficits are uncommon, they can be career-ending or life-threatening for athletes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a reference for diagnosing and treating shoulder neurovascular injuries.
• To increase awareness among healthcare professionals regarding these injuries.
• To correlate neurovascular lesions with specific musculoskeletal injuries in the shoulder.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on neurovascular injuries of the shoulder complex.
• Organization of information by anatomical location and associated musculoskeletal injuries.
• Emphasis on diagnostic and treatment strategies for clinicians, trainers, and physicians.

Main Results:

• Neurovascular injuries can present acutely or chronically.
• Misdiagnosis is a risk, as subtle deficits may be overlooked when focusing on fractures or dislocations.
• Failure to improve during rehabilitation may indicate an underlying neurovascular issue.

Conclusions:

• A high index of suspicion is necessary for diagnosing shoulder neurovascular injuries.
• Prompt recognition and management are vital to prevent long-term consequences.
• This review serves as a guide for healthcare providers evaluating shoulder injuries in athletes.