Clinical Review
Management of Acute Glenohumeral Dislocations
Am J Orthop. 2009 June;38(6):282-290
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Michael J. Sileo, MD, Samuel Joseph, MD, Corey O. Nelson, MD, Jonathan D. Botts, MD, and James Penna, MD
Dr. Sielo and Dr. Joseph are PGY-5 Residents, Dr. Nelson is PGY-4 Resident, Dr. Botts is PGY-2 Resident, and Dr. Penna is Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, State University of New York at Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York.
The glenohumeral joint is the most commonly dislocated joint in the human body. Glenohumeral joint dislocations account for a large number of orthopedic consultations in inpatient and outpatient settings. A thorough workup is required for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of this injury. Complete history and physical examination and radiographic studies are essential, and reduction should always be attempted. In this article, we review the literature for each phase of the workup for glenohumeral dislocation and describe the anatomy, biomechanics, and basic science of the injury. Featured is a detailed synopsis of the more commonly used reduction maneuvers plus their risks and success rates.