Intrathoracic Displacement of a Fractured Humeral Head Due to Blunt Trauma

Yuan Ming Tsai, Pei Hung Shen, H. Chang, Ching Tzao, Shih Chun Lee, Yeung Leung Cheng

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The incidence of a fractured humeral head penetrating into the thoracic cavity is extremely rare. A 46-year-old woman presented with moderate respiratory distress at the emergency department after being involved in a motor vehicle accident. Radiographic examinations revealed fractures of the second to fifth ribs on the left side along with hemopneumothorax and fracture-dislocation of the humeral head into the thoracic cavity. After initial stabilization, video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) was performed to remove the fractured humeral head, and this was followed by a hemiarthroplasty. In this case report, we have discussed significant aspects of this uncommon finding in order to alert surgeons of the potential risks associated with intrathoracic displacement of the fractured humeral bone in trauma patients.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)592-594
Number of pages3
JournalAnnals of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
Volume20
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Hemiarthroplasty
  • Humeral fracture
  • Intrathoracic displacement
  • Trauma
  • Video-assisted thoracic surgery

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
  • Surgery

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