Uncommon Inferior Shoulder Dislocation in the Emergency Department

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Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics | Vol 9 | Issue 2 |  July-December 2024 | page: 122-125 | Mansoor Malnas, Bhavya Patwa, Parag Munshi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.13107/jcorth.2024.v09i02.692

Submitted Date: 18 Aug 2024, Review Date: 20 Sep 2024, Accepted Date: 22 Sep 2024 & Published Date: 10 Dec 2024

Author: Mansoor Malnas [1], Bhavya Patwa [1], Parag Munshi [1]

[1] Department of Orthopaedics, Bombay Hospital Institute of Medical Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Address of Correspondence

Dr. Mansoor Malnas,

Department of Orthopaedics, Bombay Hospital Institute of Medical Sciences, 12, New Marine Lines, Mumbai – 400 020, Maharashtra, India.

E-mail: malnasmansoor@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction: Inferior shoulder dislocations, also known as luxatio erecta, are a rare subset of shoulder dislocations, accounting for <1% of cases encountered in emergency settings. This unique injury involves the inferior displacement of the humeral head below the glenoid cavity, often resulting from a downward force applied to an abducted arm. Clinically, luxatio erecta presents with the arm fixed in an abducted, overhead position, and is frequently associated with additional injuries, such as rotator cuff tears,
fractures, or neurovascular compromise.
Case Report: This case report details the presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcomes of a 52-year-old male with an inferior shoulder dislocation complicated by a fracture of the greater tuberosity following a fall. Initial reduction attempts in the emergency department were unsuccessful, necessitating reduction under general anesthesia. A post-reduction CT scan revealed a displaced greater tuberosity fracture, which was subsequently stabilized through surgical fixation and rotator cuff repair.
Conclusion: This case underscores the critical importance of early recognition, appropriate imaging, and individualized treatment planning to ensure optimal recovery in cases of luxatio erecta with concomitant injuries.
Keywords: Luxatio erecta, greater tuberosity fracture, shoulder dislocation, closed reduction under anesthesia, inferior shoulder dislocation.

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How to Cite this article: Malnas M, Patwa B, Munshi P. Uncommon Inferior Shoulder Dislocation in the Emergency Department. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics July-December 2024;9(2):122-125.

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