Dislocation of Sternoclavicular Joint and Acromioclavicular Joint Injury
Dislocation of sternoclavicular joint is not a common condition. The joint is firmly supported by the capsule and ligaments around the joint and by the strong costoclavicular ligament from below. This can bear the burden of severe sprain without being displaced. Mechanism of Injury: The lesion is produced mainly due to indirect violence, but direct injury can lead to the same result. Indirect Force: When one falls on an outstretched hand the force is directed along the upper limb to the shoulder- joint and transmitted to the sternoclavicular joint. The force impinges against the sternum with displacement of the clavicle. Direct Injury: Direct injury over the medial end of clavicle can displace it posteriorly. Types of Dislocation: In case of complete dislocation there is rupture of the costoclavicular ligament. The displacement may be anterior, superior or posterior. DIAGNOSIS It is easy to make the diagnosis by clinical examination. Localized lump along with tenderness can be detected over the sternoclavicular joint. Shoulder- joint movement produces pain. In severe posterior dislocation, the sternal end of clavicle can press over the trachea producing acute respiratory distress. TREATMENT Reduction by manipulation can sometimes be done easily when performed at an early stage. The anatomical […]
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