ABSTRACT
We present the case of a 30-year-old male with anterior shoulder dislocation in which a bedside handheld ultrasound was used after sedation and a reduction procedure to confirm successful reduction. X-ray imaging as well as bedside ultrasound was performed before and after the reduction. The bedside handheld ultrasound demonstrated findings comparable to the X-ray results. X-ray imaging is used as a standard not only in the diagnosis of a dislocated shoulder but also to ensure successful reduction and to assess for any procedure-related fractures. An advantage of immediate bedside ultrasound is that immediate recognition by ultrasound of an unsuccessful reduction can allow the reduction process to continue while the patient is sedated, thus avoiding additional independent sedation procedures. The utilization of bedside ultrasonography in this manner may allow more expeditious and safer care for patients with shoulder dislocations.
