New technique for reduction of irreducible anterior glenohumeral shoulder dislocation

Objective This study was performed to describe a new technique for reduction of anterior glenohumeral dislocation in four non-sedated patients in whom traditional techniques were unsuccessful. Methods Four patients with clinically and radiographically proven acute anterior glenohumeral dislocations were admitted to the emergency department. An oral analgesic and local infiltration of lidocaine into the glenohumeral joint were administered prior to the reduction attempts. Four to six reduction attempts using a variety of traditional maneuvers were unsuccessful before applying our technique. The glenohumeral joint was then successfully reduced using our technique and confirmed on radiographs. A sling was placed for post-reduction pain relief. Results All four patients underwent successful closed reduction, proven clinically and by radiographs, after the first attempt using our technique. No complications occurred. Conclusion Our maneuver provides safe and successful closed reduction for irreducible acute anterior glenohumeral dislocation.