Luxatio erecta

Abstract

Luxatio erecta or inferior dislocation of the shoulder joint is rare and is caused by a hyperabduction injury. The clinical appearance is characteristic, with the arm locked in an elevated position. Radiographically, the shaft of the humerus is directed upwards and the humeral head lies inferior to the glenoid fossa, although not in contact with it. Attention should be given to possible complication, particularly concurrent fractures, as well as injury to the brachial plexus or the axillary artery.

Luxatio erecta: Clinical presentation and management in the Emergency Department

“…The humeral head is seen inferior to the glenoid fossa without contact with the glenoid rim. The X-rays also should be evaluated for potential fractures of the acromion, coracoid, clavicle, greater tuberosity, humeral head, and the glenoid rim, as well as acromioclavicular seperation (1,3,4).…”

Bilateral luxatio erecta humeri

“…11 With this mechanism fractures of the inferior glenoid rim, acromion and the greater tuberosity can occur. 4 The direct mechanism involves axial loading of the humerus from above with the arm fully abducted at the shoulder and the elbow fully extended. This mechanism, although being less frequent than the indirect type, resulted in the bilateral inferior dislocations sustained by our patient.…”

A case of bilateral luxatio erecta

“…Any passive movement is possible, and the humeral head is palpable on the chest wall [ 3 ]. X-ray shows the humeral head located below the rim of the glenoid and the humeral shaft is parallel to the scapular spine [ 4 ]. In order to reduce inferior glenohumeral dislocation, it is recommended a traction counter-traction maneuver under sedation followed by immobilization in a Desault bandage for at least 2 weeks.…”