Komplexverletzung der Schulter - Floating Shoulder

Abstract

Complex injuries of the shoulder are comparatively rare. This article especially deals with the diagnosis and therapy of the so called “floating shoulder”. This term describes a discontinuation of the osseus and soft tissue suspension of the upper extremity from the axial skeleton, a combination of a shaft fracture of the clavicle with a neck fracture of the scapula and ligamentous rupture. By literature review and involvement of recent biomechanical studies this article will show the injury patterns that lead to instability of the shoulder girdle and the therapeutic to be employed in respective cases.