J Bone Joint Surg Br
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J Bone Joint Surg Br · Jul 1992
Posterior fracture-dislocation of the shoulder. A superior subacromial approach for open reduction.
We describe 11 cases of posterior fracture-dislocation of the shoulder that required open reduction and fixation. Difficulties with access through anterior approaches led us to use the superior subacromial approach. ⋯ The proximity of the axillary nerve limits the exposure of the proximal humeral shaft. The superior subacromial approach is ideal for posterior dislocation with fracture of the articular segment, but is not suitable when there is a fracture of the proximal humeral shaft.