Dislocation of the Upper Extremity: Diagnosis and Management
Li X, Cusano A, Eichinger JK. Dislocations of the upper extremity: Diagnosis and management. Let’s Discuss: Common Orthopaedic Emergencies: Surviving the Night. 2015 Editors: Kenneth Koval and Paul Tornetta III. Publisher: AAOS – Monograph Series. Chicago, IL.
INTRODUCTION
Shoulder dislocations are common and account for 50% of all joint dislocations.l Elbow dislocations are the second most prevalent major joint dislocation in adults. Effective treatment of these injuries requires a thorough understanding of the anatomy and imaging techniques as well as how to safely and effectively perform timely reductions. Upper extremity dislocations are generally acute traumatic events because of supraphysiologic forces resulting from falls from a height or contact sport injury. These dislocations are typically associated with marked pain and restricted function, prompting emergency evaluation and treatment. This chapter discusses the functional anatomy, clinical and radiographic evaluation, indications, and management of shoulder and elbow dislocations, as well as other less commonly dislocated joints around the shoulder girdle.
