Clinically significant abnormalities in postreduction radiographs after anterior shoulder dislocation

Rate of Successful Shoulder Reduction on First Confirmatory Imaging in the Emergency Department

BACKGROUND

Management of acute shoulder dislocation in the emergency department (ED) is common.

OBJECTIVE

This study describes the rate, risk factors, and length of stay (LOS) associated with shoulder dislocation reduction failure in the ED.

METHODS

The study was a retrospective case-control study of patients 18 years and older presenting to the ED with acute shoulder dislocation who underwent attempted reduction. Patients with successful reduction on post-reduction first confirmatory imaging are compared with those requiring multiple attempts.

RESULTS

Of 398 ED encounters when a shoulder reduction was attempted in the ED, 18.8% (75/398 [95% CI 15.2-22.9%]) required multiple reduction attempts. Patients with successful reduction on first confirmatory imaging were more commonly male (80.2% [95% CI 75.6-84.3%] vs. 68.0% [95% CI 56.8-77.8%]; p = 0.0220), discharged home from the ED (95.4% [95% CI 92.6-97.3%] vs. 84.0% [95% CI 74.4-91.0%]; p = 0.0004), reduced using a traction/countertraction technique (42.1% [95% CI 36.8-47.6%] vs. 29.3% [95% CI 19.9-40.4%]; p = 0.0415), and less likely to have a pre-reduction fracture (26.0% [95% CI 21.4-31.0%] vs. 45.3% [95% CI 34.4-56.7%]; p = 0.0010). Mean length of stay (LOS) for those with successful reduction on first confirmatory imaging was 2 hours and 8 minutes shorter than for those with more than one attempt (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of failed first-pass reduction is higher than previously reported. Furthermore, the ED LOS was significantly longer in patients requiring multiple attempts. Knowledge of the failure rate and risk factors may raise physician awareness and guide future studies evaluating approaches for verification of reduction success.

Austere Diagnosis and Reduction of Anterior Shoulder Dislocations: 10-Year Review of a Ski Patrol-Based Program with Emergency Medical Technicians

INTRODUCTION

Glenohumeral dislocations present a challenging management dilemma in austere settings where patient transport time may be prolonged. Expeditious reduction is preferable, but treatment is commonly expected to take place within a hospital or comparable facility. Through a novel shoulder injury program, professional ski patrollers trained as emergency medical technicians (EMTs) have diagnosed and reduced anterior shoulder dislocations using biomechanical techniques without sedation or analgesia for over 20 y. Summary records have been maintained to track the performance and safety of this program.

METHODS

Five hundred forty-six records of winter sports-related shoulder injuries from 2009-10 to 2019-20 were retrospectively analyzed to determine the assessment performance and dislocation reduction efficacy of EMTs, with the intent of ascertaining whether EMT-trained practitioners can reliably and safely diagnose and reduce anterior shoulder dislocations without premedication in a remote and resource-limited setting.

RESULTS

EMTs identified anterior shoulder dislocations with 98% sensitivity and 96% diagnostic accuracy. The overall success rate of reduction attempts was 86%, or 88% when limited to confirmed anterior dislocations. Two fracture-dislocations and 4 misdiagnoses were manipulated. No instances of iatrogenic harm were identified, and no patients who underwent successful reductions required ambulance transportation.

CONCLUSIONS

With appropriate education and within a structured program, EMT-trained practitioners can reliably and safely diagnose and reduce anterior shoulder dislocations using biomechanical techniques without premedication in remote and resource-limited environments. Implementation of similar programs in austere settings has the potential to improve patient care. Further, using biomechanical reduction techniques may reduce reliance on procedural sedation irrespective of care setting.

Closed Reduction of Anterior Shoulder Dislocations Performed by Ski Patrollers in the Alpine Prehospital Environment: A Retrospective Review Demonstrating Efficacy in a Canadian Ski Resort

INTRODUCTION

Shoulder dislocations are common ski hill injuries. Rapid reduction is known to improve outcomes; however, advanced providers are not always available to provide care to these patients. In 2017, nonmedical ski patrollers at Sunshine Village ski resort in Alberta, Canada, were trained to perform anterior shoulder dislocation (ASD) reductions. Program success was determined by a chart review after the 2020 ski season.

METHODS

This study retrospectively reviewed data on patients who presented to Sunshine Village ski patrol with a suspected ASD and who met the study inclusion criteria from November 2017 through March 2020. Data were collected from ski patrol electronic patient care records regarding general demographics, reduction technique used, analgesia administration, and reduction success rates.

RESULTS

Ninety-six cases were available for review after exclusions. Trained nonmedical ski patrollers successfully reduced 82 of these cases, resulting in an overall reduction success rate of 89%. Sixty-three (66%) of these patients had experienced first-time dislocations. Eighty-two (87%) patients were male, with a median age of 25 y. The most used technique was the Cunningham method (75%), and analgesia was administered to 70% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective study documents the results of a quality assurance review of the treatment of ASD at Sunshine Village ski resort. With a success rate of 89%, the evidence supports the conclusion that nonmedical ski patrollers can successfully perform ASD reductions. We believe training ski patrollers to reduce ASD improved patient care in our austere environment by providing early definitive treatment with a high success rate.

Diagnostic accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) for shoulder dislocations and reductions in the emergency department: a diagnostic randomised control trial (RCT)

BACKGROUND

Following blunt trauma, diagnosis of shoulder dislocation based on physical examination alone is difficult due to possible concurrent proximal humeral fractures. X-rays are therefore used to confirm diagnosis. Results from recent observational studies comparing diagnostic accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) with X-rays for shoulder dislocation have been encouraging. The aim of this study was to determine whether PoCUS improves diagnostic accuracy when used with physical examination for the diagnosis of shoulder dislocation, proximal humeral fracture and ascertaining successful reduction in the ED.

METHODS

A prospective, single-centre, open, parallel randomised control study over a 6-month period was used to answer the research question and test the null hypothesis. Consecutive eligible adult patients attending the ED of Mater Dei Hospital in Malta were randomised to either the control (C) (physical examination only) or experimental group (E) (physical examination and a two-point PoCUS scan). The study objectives were to measure diagnostic accuracy for both examinations for detecting shoulder dislocation, any associated proximal humeral fractures and confirming reduction. X-rays were used as reference standard for both groups.

RESULTS

1206 patients were enrolled in this study (C n=600, E n=606). 290 dislocations (C n=132 and E n=158), 332 proximal humeral fractures (C n=154 and E n=178) and 278 reductions (C n=130 and E n=148) were analysed. A statistically significant difference (p<0.001) was found between the two groups for diagnostic accuracy in shoulder dislocation (C=65%, likelihood ratio (LR)+=2.03 and LR-=0.35 and E=100%, LR+=∞ and LR-=0), proximal humeral fractures (C=45.7%, LR+=1.23 and LR-=0.52 and E=98.3%, LR+=103.9 and LR-=0.03) and reduction (C=68.7%, E=100%). The null hypothesis for this study was thus rejected.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of PoCUS to a physical examination significantly improves diagnostic accuracy for dislocations, proximal humeral fractures and reduction confirmation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials Number Registry (ISRCTN17048126).

Point-of-care ultrasound for the diagnosis of shoulder dislocation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Shoulder dislocations are a common injury causing patients to present to the emergency department. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has the potential to reduce time, radiation exposure, and healthcare costs among patients presenting with shoulder dislocations. We performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound compared with plain radiography in the assessment of shoulder dislocations.

METHODS

PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, LILACS, the Cochrane databases, Google Scholar, and bibliographies of selected articles were assessed for all prospective and randomized control trials evaluating the accuracy of POCUS for identifying shoulder dislocation. Data were dual extracted into a predefined worksheet and quality analysis was performed with the QUADAS-2 tool. Data were summarized and a meta-analysis was performed with subgroup analyses by technique. Diagnostic accuracy of identifying associated fractures was assessed as a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

Seven studies met our inclusion criteria, comprising 739 assessments with 306 dislocations. Overall, POCUS was 99.1% (95% CI 84.9% to 100%) sensitive and 99.9% (95% CI 88.9% to 100%) specific for the diagnosis of shoulder dislocation with a LR+ of 796.2 (95% CI 8.0 to 79,086.0) and a LR- of 0.01 (95% CI 0 to 0.17). There was no statistically significant difference between techniques. POCUS was also 97.9% (95% CI 10.5% to 100%) sensitive and 99.8% (95% CI 28.0% to 100%) specific for the diagnosis of associated fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

POCUS is highly sensitive and specific for the identification of shoulder dislocations and reductions, as well as associated fractures. POCUS may be considered as an alternate diagnostic method for the management of shoulder dislocations.

Current Approach to the Diagnosis and Management of Shoulder Dislocation in Children

Shoulder dislocations are a common presentation to the emergency department. Although many cases may be diagnosed by history and clinical examination alone, imaging may help diagnose more challenging cases. Three-view radiographs are important for identifying subtle posterior dislocations, and ultrasonography has been gaining evidence as an alternate diagnostic modality. Intra-articular lidocaine and nerve blocks may improve pain control and reduce the need for procedural sedation. Multiple, evidence-based reduction techniques are described including tips for improving success. Immobilization strategies and follow-up are also discussed.

Bedside ultrasonography for verification of shoulder reduction: A long way to go

PURPOSE

Shoulder dislocation is a common joint dislocation managed by the emergency physicians in the emergency departments. Pre- and post-reduction radiographic examinations have long been the standard practice to confirm the presence of dislocation and the successful reduction. However, shoulder ultrasonography has recently been proposed as an alternative to the radiographic examination. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of ultrasonography in evaluating proper reduction of the dislocated joint.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study. All patients with confirmed anterior shoulder dislocation were examined by both ultrasonography and radiography after the attempt for reduction of the dislocated joint. The examiners were blinded to the result of the other imaging modality. Results of the two methods were then compared.

RESULTS

Overall, 108 patients with confirmed anterior shoulder dislocation were enrolled in the study. Ninety-one (84.3%) of the patients were males. Mean age of the participants was (30.11 ± 11.41) years. The majority of the patients had a recurrent dislocation. Bedside ultrasonography showed a sensitivity of 53.8% (95% CI: 29.1%-76.8%) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI: 96.1%-100%) in detecting inadequate reductions. The results of ultrasonography had a statistically significant agreement with the results of radiography (Kappa = 0.672, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the sensitivity of post-reduction ultrasound is not sufficient for it to serve as a substitute for radiography.

Frequency of Fractures Identified on Post-Reduction Radiographs After Shoulder Dislocation

Introduction

Most emergency physicians routinely obtain shoulder radiographs before and after shoulder dislocations. However, currently there is limited literature demonstrating how frequently new fractures are identified on post-reduction radiographs. The primary objective of this study was to determine the frequency of new, clinically significant fractures identified on post-reduction radiographs with a secondary outcome assessing total new fractures identified.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review using appropriate International Classification of Diseases, 9^th Revision (ICD-9) codes to identify all potential shoulder dislocations that were reduced in a single, urban, academic emergency department (ED) over a five-year period. We excluded cases that required operative reduction, had associated proximal humeral head or shaft fractures, or were missing one or more shoulder radiograph reports. All charts were abstracted separately by two study investigators with disagreements settled by consensus among three investigators. Images from indeterminate cases were reviewed by a radiology attending physician with musculoskeletal expertise. The primary outcome was the percentage of new, clinically significant fractures defined as those altering acute ED management. Secondary outcomes included percentage of new fractures of any type.

Results

We identified 185 total patients meeting our study criteria. There were no new, clinically significant fractures on post-reduction radiographs. There were 13 (7.0%; 95% CI [3.3%–10.7%]) total new fractures identified, all of which were without clinical significance for acute ED management.

Conclusion

Post-reduction radiographs do not appear to identify any new, clinically significant fractures. Practitioners should re-consider the use of routine post-reduction radiographs in the ED setting for shoulder dislocations.

Easily Missed Fractures of the Upper Extremity

Radiographs remain the mainstay for initial imaging of suspected fracture in the emergency setting. Missed fractures potentially have significant negative consequences for patients, referring physicians, and radiologists. Most missed fractures are owing to perceptual errors. In this review, we emphasize knowledge of 3 categories of pitfalls as they pertain to the upper extremity: the common but challenging; the out of mind, out of sight; and those related to satisfaction of search. For specific injuries, emphasis is placed on helpful radiographic signs and important additional radiographic views to obtain.

Prospective evaluation of a guideline for the selective elimination of pre-reduction radiographs in clinically obvious anterior shoulder dislocation

Objective:

Research has demonstrated that experienced emergency physicians can identify a subgroup of patients with shoulder dislocation for whom pre-reduction radiographs do not alter patient management. Based on that research, a treatment guideline for the selective elimination of pre-reduction radiographs in clinically evident cases of anterior shoulder dislocation was developed and implemented. The primary objective of this study was to prospectively determine whether the treatment guideline safely eliminates unnecessary radiographs.

Methods:

We enrolled a convenience sample of patients who presented to our rural emergency department with possible shoulder dislocation between November 2000 and April 2001. Physicians scored their level of clinical diagnostic certainty on a 10-cm visual analogue scale prior to viewing pre-reduction radiographs (if obtained). Data were collected on clinical scoring and evaluation, compliance with the guideline, and outcomes.

Results:

A total of 63 patients were enrolled, ranging in age from 17 to 79 years (mean = 33); 87.3% were male. Emergency physicians were certain of shoulder dislocation in 59 (93.7%) patients (95% CI, 84.5%–98.2%) and complied with the treatment guideline in 52 patients (82.5%). Most deviations from the treatment guideline involved the elimination of post-reduction radiographs (which the guideline recommends for all patients). The treatment guideline eliminated 56 (88.9%, 95% CI, 78.4%–95.4%) pre-reduction radiographs, as compared to the standard practice of obtaining pre-reduction films for all cases of suspected shoulder dislocation (p &lt; 0.0001)

Conclusions:

Experienced emergency physicians are frequently certain of the diagnosis of anterior shoulder dislocation on clinical grounds alone and can comfortably and safely use this guideline for the selective elimination of pre-reduction radiographs. Compliance with the guideline substantially decreases pre-reduction radiographs. Validation of the guideline in other settings is warranted.

Refinement of the Quebec decision rule for radiography in shoulder dislocation

OBJECTIVE

We prospectively derived a clinical decision rule to guide pre- and postreduction radiography for emergency department (ED) patients with anterior glenohumeral dislocation.

METHODS

This prospective cohort derivation study took place at 4 university-affiliated EDs over a 3-year period and enrolled consenting patients with anterior glenohumeral dislocation who were 18 years of age or older. We compared patients with a clinically important fracture-dislocation with those who had an uncomplicated dislocation to provide the clinical decision rule components using recursive partitioning. The final rule involved age, mechanism, prior dislocation and humeral ecchymosis.

RESULTS

A total of 222 patients were included in the study. Forty (18.0%) had clinically important fracture-dislocation. A clinical decision rule using 4 factors reached a sensitivity of 100% (95% confidence interval [CI] 89.4%-100%), a specificity of 34.2% (95% CI 27.7%-41.2%), a negative predictive value of 99.2% (95% CI 92.8%-99.9%) and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.04 (95% CI 0.002-0.27). Patients younger than 40 years are at high risk for clinically important fracture- dislocation only if the mechanism of injury involves substantial force (i.e., a fall greater than their own height, a sport injury, an assault or a motor vehicle collision). Patients 40 years of age or older are at high risk only in the presence of humeral ecchymosis or after their first dislocation. Projected use of the rule would reduce the absolute number of prereduction radiographs by 27.9% and of postreduction by 81.9%.

CONCLUSION

The Quebec shoulder dislocation rule for patients with acute anterior glenohumeral dislocation holds promise to reduce unnecessary imaging, pending validation.

The Role of Post-Reduction Radiographs After Shoulder Dislocation

We sought to determine whether post-reduction radiographs add clinically important information to what is seen on pre-reduction X-rays in Emergency Department (ED) patients with anterior shoulder dislocations. In this prospective, observational study, clinicians recorded preliminary pre-reduction and post-reduction X-ray readings on patients with shoulder dislocations. The films were subsequently reviewed by a blinded attending radiologist. Seventy-three patients presented to the ED with shoulder dislocations over an 18-month period; 55 of these patients had pre- and post-reduction X-rays and were included in the study. Eight of these patients had fractures seen on preliminary reading of post-reduction X-rays; one (1.8%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0-9.7%) of these fractures was not seen on preliminary reading of pre-reduction films. On preliminary reading, all patients' shoulders were relocated on post-reduction X-rays (100%; 95% CI 93.5-100%). Forty of these patients had their X-rays read by a blinded attending radiologist. Sixteen fractures were seen on post-reduction X-rays, of which 6 (15.0%; 95% CI 5.7-29.8%) were not seen on pre-reduction X-rays. All patients (100%; 95% CI 91.2-100%) whose post-reduction films were read by blinded attending radiologists had shoulder relocation confirmed. In conclusion, although the majority (62.5%) of fractures associated with shoulder dislocations are seen on pre-reduction radiographs, more than one-third (37.5%) of fractures may be visible only on post-reduction X-rays. None of the fractures missed on pre-reduction X-rays changed patient management in the ED. There were no persistent shoulder dislocations found on post-reduction films.

Survey of the management of acute traumatic first-time anterior shoulder dislocation among trauma clinicians in the UK

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this work was to survey how acute traumatic first-time anterior shoulder dislocation (AFSD) is managed among trauma clinicians in UK using a postal questionnaire.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 150 questionnaires were sent out to active consultant members of the British Trauma Society in the UK. Questions were laid out in two 'workgroups'. In Workgroup One, an assortment of questions was included regarding choices and methods of analgesia, methods of monitoring used, methods of reduction, and position of immobilisation. In Workgroup Two, three different case scenarios were analysed to look into the 'post-reduction' management.

RESULTS

The response rate was 60%. Of respondents, 22% have a local protocol for managing AFSD. Almost all respondents recommended pre- and post-reduction X-rays as standard practice. Most respondents favoured systemic analgesia and sedation with airways' monitoring, as opposed to intra-articular anaesthesia (68 versus 9). Eighty-four respondents advocated immobilisation in internal rotation compared to six in external rotation. Only 19% (16 of 84) of respondents would perform an immediate arthroscopic stabilisation in young, fit patients presenting with this type of injury.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey revealed variations among trauma clinicians in managing AFSD on the 'front-line'. There is a need to address the issue of intra-articular analgesia, immobilisation technique and management of AFSD in the young patient with regards to immediate surgical intervention. We suggest that these issues be revised and clarified, ideally in a randomised, controlled, clinical trial prior to the introduction of a protocol for managing this problem.

Selective radiography in 100 patients with suspected shoulder dislocation

We sought to prospectively validate an algorithm for selective radiography in the Emergency Department (ED) management of patients with suspected shoulder dislocation. Physicians ordered pre- and post-reduction radiographs based on an algorithm incorporating the mechanism of injury, previous dislocations, and the physician's clinical certainty of joint position. Follow-up consisted of telephone calls and chart review. Of 100 patients, 94 had shoulder dislocation, and 59% were recurrent. Thirty percent had both pre- and post-reduction radiographs, 45% had pre- or post-reduction only, and 25% had no shoulder films, yielding an overall 46% reduction in X-ray utilization. Mean ED times were significantly shorter for patients managed without radiographs. On telephone follow-up (76%) and chart review (100%), we found no missed fractures or persistent dislocations. Use of a clinical decision rule for selective radiography reduced the number of radiographs and time spent in the ED, while missing no fractures or dislocations.

Multidetector computed tomography in acute joint fractures

Conventional radiography plays an essential diagnostic role in the primary evaluation of acute joint trauma. In complex fractures, however, computed tomography (CT) is an imaging modality often used second to radiography. As a result of technical breakthroughs in the field, multidetector CT (MDCT) allows faster imaging and better temporal, spatial, and contrast resolution compared with conventional single-slice spiral CT. MDCT with multiplanar reformation is helpful in disclosing fracture patterns, particularly in complex joint fractures, where they reveal occult fractures and show the exact number of fracture components and their degree of displacement.

Questionnaire reveals variations in the management of acute first time shoulder dislocations in the Netherlands

AIM

To collect information about the management of patients with acute first time shoulder dislocation by (orthopaedic) surgeons in the accident and emergency departments of Dutch hospitals.

DESIGN

Questionnaires were sent to 131 (orthopaedic) surgeons of 74 Dutch hospitals.

METHOD

We enquired whether patients with acute first time shoulder dislocation are managed according to protocols in accident and emergency departments; which radiographs are deemed necessary before and after reduction; which reduction methods are generally performed; and what kind of pain relief or sedatives are generally administered. Furthermore, we enquired into the method and duration of immobilization after reduction.

RESULTS

The response rate was 73%. Sixty-five per cent of the hospitals are used to managing acute first time shoulder dislocation according to protocols. Making prereduction and postreduction radiographs is standard practice in almost all hospitals. The most favoured methods of reduction are those according to Kocher and Hippocrates. In 85% of cases sedatives are administered before reduction, and in addition to that systemic analgesia is administered in 30%, whereas intra-articular analgesia is preferred in 25% of cases.

CONCLUSION

Apparently, a protocol for the management of acute first time shoulder dislocation is not standardly available in all hospitals. On the basis of current literature and the results of this questionnaire it may be useful to establish a guideline for diagnostic procedures and the management of acute first time shoulder dislocation in accident and emergency departments.

Acute complications associated with shoulder dislocation at an academic Emergency Department

Shoulder dislocation is the most frequent dislocation treated in the Emergency Department (ED). Orthopedic literature cites up to a 55% incidence of fracture, vascular or neurologic injury associated with this injury, but these studies suffer from referral bias. No large ED series has been reported. This retrospective chart review was conducted in an academic ED for patients with shoulder dislocation presenting July 1, 1995-June 30, 2000. There were 263 charts identified; 73 were miscoded and 5 were lost, leaving 190 for analysis. Mean age was 34.3 years. Fifty-five patients had at least one fracture (29%), 48 of which (76%) were of the Hill-Sachs type. Despite presence of a fracture, all shoulders underwent successful ED reduction. Sensory nerve deficits were found in 24 (12.6%), which persisted after reduction in 25% of these patients. No vascular injuries were identified. The finding of fracture in 33% of patients with shoulder dislocation is in the range of rates reported in the orthopedic literature (15-55%). The finding that, despite the presence of a fracture, all underwent successful closed reduction is important, as one-third of these patients will have this condition. Neurologic deficits in 12% is significantly lower than the 21-65% reported in the orthopedic literature. Although complications associated with shoulder dislocation were relatively common, they did not significantly affect ED management.

Necessity of radiographs in the emergency department management of shoulder dislocations

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine the necessity of radiographs in the emergency department management of patients with suspected shoulder dislocation.

METHODS

A prospective, observational study was conducted at a university-affiliated, Level I trauma center ED with an emergency medicine residency program. Physicians entered all patients with a suspected shoulder dislocation and reported whether they were certain that the patient's shoulder was dislocated or reduced, before obtaining radiographs. Outcome measures were the assessments of joint position and the radiology reports of prereduction and postreduction films.

RESULTS

One hundred four patients were enrolled in the study, including 98 with shoulder dislocations, and 191 physician assessments were performed (96 prereduction, 95 postreduction). Twenty-eight patients had recurrent dislocations with an atraumatic mechanism (group 1), and 76 had no prior dislocation or a blunt mechanism of injury (group 2). There were no fractures in group 1 patients; the accuracy of confident assessments was 100% (95% confidence interval 92% to 100%). In group 2, the accuracy of confident assessments was 98% (95% confidence interval 94% to 100%). Incorrect assessments occurred only in patients with fractures. A derived algorithm would have reduced radiographs by 51%.

CONCLUSION

Physicians are highly accurate in the clinical determination of shoulder dislocation and relocation. Radiographs should be obtained when the physician is uncertain of dislocation or reduction. Prereduction films should be obtained for patients with a blunt traumatic mechanism of injury, and postreduction for those found to have a fracture-dislocation. However, postreduction films add little in patients without fractures, and neither prereduction nor postreduction films are likely to affect the ED management of patients with recurrent dislocation by an atraumatic mechanism. Prospective validation of the derived algorithm is suggested.

Prereduction radiographs in clinically evident anterior shoulder dislocation

The main study objective was to determine if experienced emergency physicians can accurately identify a subgroup of patients with anterior shoulder dislocation for whom prereduction radiographs do not alter patient management. Our prospective study evaluated 97 patients who presented to 2 ski-hill clinics and to our rural emergency department with possible shoulder dislocation between November 1996 and May 1997. Emergency physicians were certain of shoulder dislocation by clinical examination alone in 40 of 59 cases (67.8%) of possible dislocation. All 40 cases were found to have a dislocation (100%; 95% Cl, 91.19% to 100%), and the prereduction radiograph did not affect management of the injury. Prereduction radiographs added 29.6 +/- 12.68 minutes to treatment. We conclude that shoulder dislocation is often readily apparent from history and physical examination. When the experienced emergency physician is certain of the diagnosis of anterior shoulder dislocation, prereduction radiography delays treatment and does not alter management.

Evaluation of the patient with extremity trauma: an evidence based approach

This article reviews relevant literature to provide evidence based guidelines for the evaluation of patients with extremity trauma in the emergency department. The development of clinical decision rules for extremity trauma in the ankle and knee, and guidelines for obtaining postreduction radiographs of shoulder dislocations and nursemaid's elbows are discussed.