Posterior sternoclavicular dislocations: a brief review and technique for closed management of a rare but serious injury

Abstract

Posterior sternoclavicular dislocations are rare but serious injuries. The proximity of the medial clavicle to the vital structures of the mediastinum warrants caution with management of the injury. Radiographs are the initial imaging test, though computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are essential for diagnosis and preoperative planning. This paper presents an efficient diagnostic approach and effective technique of closed reduction of posterior sternoclavicular dislocations with a brief review of open and closed reduction procedures.