Scapular dislocation

Abstract

Isolated dislocation of the scapula is a rare entity encountered in the emergency department. Two mechanisms have been proposed, a distraction injury to the arm or direct trauma to the posterior scapula. With blunt trauma, a search for adjacent injuries should be performed. Radiographs, especially anterior oblique views, will demonstrate lateral displacement of the scapula. Acute presentations should be managed by closed reduction, whereas for those presenting later or if the diagnosis is not initially suspected, open surgical reduction may be required. A case is reported of 32-year-old man with a scapular dislocation, and the literature is reviewed.