Posterior Dislocation of Sternoclavicular Joint Encroaching on Ipsilateral Vessels in 2 Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint (DSCJ) with posterior displacement of the clavicle is uncommon in children. This can lead to ipsilateral compression of the great vessels. Diagnosis may not be apparent on routine radiographs. Axial computed tomographic (CT) scan is the imaging of choice for diagnosis. Reconstruction and 3-dimensional (3D) views on CT scan may be helpful to define the anatomy before surgical reduction. We present 2 patients who had traumatic posterior DSCJ with compromise to their vascular structures. Patient 1 was a 13-year-old boy with posterior DSCJ on his left side that was not apparent on x-ray and that was diagnosed to have encroachment of the medial end of the clavicle on the left brachiocephalic vein on CT scan. Reconstruction and 3D views on CT scan were helpful in defining the anatomy before surgical reduction. The patient underwent emergent open reduction and internal fixation with complete recovery.Patient 2 was a 14-year-old boy with posterior DSCJ on the right side that was apparent on x-ray and was evaluated to have encroachment of the medial end of the clavicle on the right innominate artery with an associated paratracheal hematoma on CT scan. Reconstruction and 3D views on CT scan were also helpful in defining the anatomy before surgical reduction. The patient underwent a successful closed reduction with complete recovery.