[Bilateral posterior glenohumeral fracture-dislocation secondary to a seizure episode: the importance of early diagnosis. A case review].

Abstract

Introduction: posterior glenohumeral fracture dislocation (PGHFD) is a rare injury. It may present secondary to a seizure, electrocution or due to direct trauma. It is usually missed, and late diagnosis is common which increases the rate of complications and sequalae.

Case report: 52 year old male, transferred to a reference trauma center due to a tonic-clonic seizure and a right PGHFD. Upon admission radiographs are requested and right shoulder injury is confirmed. Additionally, a simple left posterior glenohumeral dislocation (that was missed in the initial assessment of the patient) is observed. A computed tomography (CT) scan is obtained for both shoulders to plan surgery. The CT scan showed a bilateral PGHFD with severe comminution in the left shoulder, showing considerable worsening of the left shoulder since admission. Open reduction and bilateral locked plate osteosynthesis were performed in a one stage surgery. At two years follow up the patient evolved favorably with a Quick DASH score of 5% and a CONSTANT score of 72 and 76 for his right and left shoulder, respectively.

Conclusion: PGHFD is an infrequent injury, which requires a high level of suspicion to avoid diagnostic delay and prevent complications and sequelae. Bilateral cases may be seen in cases of seizure. With prompt surgical treatment, satisfactory results can be achieved with a complete return to normal activities.