Title
The floating shoulder
UMMS Affiliation
Department of Orthopedics and Physical Rehabilitation
Date
11-1-2006
Document Type
Article
Medical Subject Headings
Biomechanics; Clavicle; Fracture Healing; Humans; Orthopedic Procedures; Shoulder Fractures; Shoulder Joint; Treatment Outcome
Disciplines
Orthopedics | Rehabilitation and Therapy
Abstract
The floating shoulder is defined as ipsilateral fractures of the midshaft of the clavicle and the neck of the glenoid. This rare injury can be difficult to manage without a thorough understanding of the complex anatomy of the shoulder girdle. Surgical intervention needs to be considered for all of these injuries. While acceptable results can be expected with non-operative management of minimally-displaced fractures, displacement at one or both sites is best managed with surgical reduction and fixation.
Rights and Permissions
Citation: J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2006 Nov;88(11):1419-24. Link to article on publisher's site