Bilateral Posterior Shoulder Dislocation Following an Accidental Fall

ABSTRACT

Posterior shoulder dislocation is a relatively uncommon event, with an incidence of 1~4% of all shoulder dislocations. Because this condition is rare and because accurately interpreting the radiography is difficult, the diagnosis is often missed. In such a case, significant complications, such as chronic posterior dislocation and degenerative disease of the shoulder, can occur. We experienced the case of a patient in whom bilateral posterior shoulder dislocation occurred following an accidental fall a height of 10m. Fortunately, he had no neurovascular injury of the shoulder and fully recovered after closed reduction, but early diagnosis was missed because other injuries were significant and his vital signs were unstable. A careful history and physical examination, complete radiographic evaluation, and a high level of suspicion are required to identify posterior shoulder dislocation. This case may be helpful for diagnosis of posterior shoulder dislocation.