Bilateral sternoclavicular joint dislocation due to sternal fracture: Is it a dislocation or a separation?

Abstract

Traumatic bilateral sternoclavicular joint dislocation is very rare injury. In shoulder girdle injuries, anterior dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint accounts for 3% and posterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation is lesser. Previous reported cases about bilateral sternoclavicular joint dislocation were result from proximal clavicle fracture with intact connection between sternum and ribs. But, the sternoclavicular joint dislocation secondary to fracture and angulation of the sternum with intact relationship between ribs and clavicle has not been reported. Authors experienced patient who has a bilateral anterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation caused by sternum fracture and anterior angulation, but intact relationship between ribs and clavicle. We report this case with satisfactory result.