Simple self-reduction method for anterior shoulder dislocation

ObjectiveTo demonstrate and evaluate a modified simple method about self-reduction of anterior shoulder dislocation for significance in the emergency room.MethodsThe Boss-Holzach-Matter method for self-reduction of anterior shoulder disloaction is described. Patients with an anterior shoulder dislocation were retrospectively analysed concerning age, gender, type of anterior shoulder dislocation, occurrence of associated fractures, time between injury and reduction, reduction time, and method of reduction with its respective success rate.ResultsEighty-six patients (52 men, 34 women, mean age 49 years) were treated from January 2010 to June 2014. The reduction time ranged between 20 seconds and 6 min (mean 1.5 min). Subcoracoid type of shoulder dislocation was seen in 72 cases (84%), subglenoid type in 14 cases (16%). Associated factures were seen in 20 cases, proportionally more often in subgleboid dislocations, 12 at the greater tuberosity, 6 at the inferior rim of the glenoid fossa and 2 at both localizations. The Boss-Holzach-Matter method was used in 35 cases with a success rate of 71.5%; die Kocher method and traction/countertraction method with premedication were used in 14 cases and 17 cases with success rates of 64% and 70%, respectively. All other cases and the failed primary attempts required hyponotic medication. All patients older than 70 (n=16) were not able to perform the self reducing procedure.ConclusionThe presented Boss-Holzach-Matter method for reduction of anterior shoulder dislocation is a simple method without the need of anaesthesia, but cooperation from patients is crucial. The successful rate is comparable with other established methods.