Posterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation in a child: a case report with review of literature

Abstract

Sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) dislocations are uncommon and usually present with anterior dislocation.2,20,21 Posterior SCJ dislocations are relatively rare injuries in adults24,49 and are extremely rare in children.10,53,59 This injury can present with very subtle physical examination findings6 and plain radiographs are generally inconclusive.39,58 One in 3 cases presents with compression symptoms of retrosternal structures, which can be life threatening43; there have also been 5 deaths reported following SCJ dislocation.