SIMULTANEOUS BILATERAL SHOULDER DISLOCATION: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction: Bilateral shoulder dislocations are relatively uncommon. Bilateral shoulder dislocation
was first described in 1902, because of muscular contractions in camphor overdose. Among the
bilateral shoulder dislocation posterior are most common usually following convulsions or electric
shocks. Simultaneous bilateral anterior dislocations of shoulder following trauma is a rare
occurrence. Case Report: A 28 year old male presented to emergency department with history of
fall on outstretched hand. He complained of pain and difficulty in moving both the shoulders. On
clinical examination, patient's both upper limbs were abducted and externally rotated. Bilaterally
shoulder contour was lost with flattening. Other classical signs of shoulder dislocation like Bryants
test, Callway sign, Hamilton's ruler test were positive. Diagnosis was confirmed on X rays. Both
shoulders were reduced in emergency operation theater under general anaesthesia by Kocher's
method and were immobilized in sling. Conclusion: Simultaneous bilateral dislocation of the
shoulder are uncommon during clinical practice but have to be diagnosed and adequately treated.
Though posterior shoulder dislocations are common secondary to convulsions and electric shocks
anterior shoulder dislocations should be kept in mind. The bilateral dislocations also presents with
practical problem of immobilization of both limbs and day to day care of patients. Hence the
dislocations require special attention and proper care .