Bilateral shoulder injuries on chest x-ray

Case contributed by Andrew Murphy
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Generalized whole body pain after a fall.

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Female

Initial imaging

x-ray

Interstitial lung markings are prominent by sub-optimal inspiration. The left glenohumeral joint appears dislocated. The right proximal humerus is fractured. Dedicated shoulder views are recommended.

Right shoulder

x-ray

There is a fracture of transverse orientation through the surgical neck of the humerus. Additionally, this fracture has a posterior component that is longitudinal to the proximal diaphysis.

Anterior dislocation of the left glenohumeral joint.

Case Discussion

This case demonstrates the value of scrutinising all elements of the chest radiograph despite any given clinical history. Beware the satisfaction of search.

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