Posterior Sternoclavicular Dislocation in Children: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Sternoclavicular dislocation (SCD) occurs very rarely in children. There is different clinical manifestations that reflect the direction of displacement; diagnosis is difficult, especially if the dislocation was initially unnoticed. We will report this case while conducting a review of the literature to evaluate and adapt our management.

Case report: We report the case of a 12-year-old boy who presented with a right posterior SCD after a trauma occurring 24 h earlier at a sports activity. Clinical examination and radiological investigations by X-ray and computed tomography scan leads to diagnosis. He underwent an orthopedic closed reduction treatment without complications at 24 months of follow-up.

Conclusion: Management of posterior sternoclavicular dislocation is different between teams, with a tendency to use orthopedic reduction in case of fresh dislocation and absence of complications. Late diagnosis and management, as well as the presence of complications, may be difficult and life-threatening (due to vascular or tracheal compression).

Keywords: Sternoclavicular dislocation; child; orthopedic treatment; posterior displacement; sports.

Figure 1

(a) Trauma attitude of the right upper limb, (b) Imomobilisation, (c) reduced anatomic relief.

Figure 2

Chest X-ray showing the presence of asymmetry of both clavicles.

Figure 3

Three dimensional computer tomographic reconstruction showing the displacement of the sternoclavicular joint.

Figure 4

Three dimensional computer tomographic reconstruction showing the reduction of the dislocation.

Figure 5

Chest X-ray at 24th month of follow-up.