Scapulothoracic dissociation: A case report


Tuzuner S., Yanat A., Urguden M., Ozkaynak C.

ISRAEL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES, vol.32, no.1, pp.70-74, 1996 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 32 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 1996
  • Journal Name: ISRAEL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.70-74
  • Keywords: scapulothoracic dissociation, closed traumatic forequarter amputation, motor vehicle accident, SUBCLAVIAN ARTERY, TRAUMA, INJURY
  • Akdeniz University Affiliated: No

Abstract

Scapulothoracic dissociation has been described as a ''closed traumatic forequarter amputation'' and is characterized by massive soft tissue swelling of the shoulder, lateral displacement of the scapula, neurovasculer injuries (brachial plexus, subclavian artery), and osseous-ligamentous injuries. In addition to the lateral displacement of the scapula, an acromioclavicular separation, a displaced fracture of the clavicle or stemoclavicular separation can be identified on plain X-rays. This injury pattern has been infrequently reported. We present a patient who had a previously unreported combination of roentgenographic findings, and in whom the diagnosis was revealed by computed tomographic evaluation.