Acute dislocations of the sternoclavicular joint are uncommon injuries, and it is difficult for physicians to develop expertise in treating these injuries because of their infrequent nature. No level I evidence currently exists for these injuries, but several retrospective studies and surgical techniques have been described. For acute injuries, current recommendations include early treatment with closed reduction. If unable to attain or maintain reduction after a closed attempt, open management should be considered. Previous reviews have outlined relevant anatomy, physical examination findings, and imaging for these injuries. This article aims to review updated information from the past decade regarding techniques for reduction, outcomes, and complications related to the injury and surgical management.
Sternoclavicular (SC) joint dislocations are an uncommon injury and account for 1% to 3% of all injuries to the upper extremity. Anterior SC joint dislocations are estimated to occur three times more frequently than posterior dislocations. A posterior dislocation may result in lifethreatening conditions given the proximity to mediastinal structures. 1,2 An SC joint dislocation can be described in the direction of displacement of the medial clavicle (anterior or posterior), the chronicity (acute, subacute, or chronic), and the degree of displacement (capsular sprain, subluxation, and dislocation). 1,2 Previous reviews have outlined relevant anatomy, physical examination findings, and imaging for these injuries. 2 This article aims to highlight updated information from the past decade regarding outcomes, techniques, and complications for acute anterior or posterior SC joint dislocations.