Background: Scapulothoracic dissociation (STD) is a rare, life-threatening injury, usually resulting from high energy and leading to poor clinical outcomes and high incidence of disability. This case and a review of the literature aimed to highlight the early diagnosis and management of STD.
Case presentation: A 61-year-old man was injured in a motorcycle accident, when he took a sudden turn and fell from his motorcycle. He was admitted to the emergency department of Changsha Central Hospital. Based on the computed tomography (CT) and digital subtraction angiogram (DSA) findings, the patient was diagnosed as follows: right scapulothoracic dislocation syndrome, right subclavian artery rupture, right subclavian vein rupture, right clavicular fracture, right multiple rib fractures, and right lung contusion and laceration. An expanded polytetrafluoroethylene interposition graft was implemented in the right subclavian artery to re-establish continuity of the subclavian artery. Surgery was performed to repair thoracic deformity, and active rehabilitation therapy also was implemented after surgery. The patient was discharged from the hospital and recovered well with grade 4 muscle strength in his right arm.
Conclusions: Physicians should be vigilant for STD in all patients with shoulder girdle injury. DSA could be recommended for patients with unstable hemodynamics. Early diagnostic image tests and individualized management should be implemented, according to the patient's condition.