Scapulothoracic dissociation: a case report

Scapulothoracic dissociation has been described as a "closed traumatic forequarter amputation" and is characterized by massive soft tissue swelling of the shoulder, lateral displacement of the scapula, neurovascular injuries (brachial plexus, subclavian artery), an osseous-ligamentous injuries. In addition to the lateral displacement of the scapula, an acromioclavicular separation, a displaced fracture of the clavicle or sternoclavicular separation can be identified on plain X-rays. This injury pattern has been infrequently reported. We present a patient who had a previously unreported combination of roentgenographic findings, and in whom the diagnosis was revealed by computed tomographic evaluation.