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Introduction
The unilateral glenohumeral dislocation is the most common form of joint dislocation and the most frequent reason for consultation, the bilateral form is very uncommon [
1]. Bilateral dislocation of the shoulder which is uncommon, is often associated with epileptic crises or electrocution and is the most common cause of posterior bilateral dislocations, while bilateral anterior dislocations are most often associated with trauma [
2]. Bilateral anterior dislocations secondary to convulsions are very rare [
3]. The following case report demonstrates a bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation as a result of epileptic fit.
Case Report
We relate a case of a 30 year old man who presented to emergency department with pain and deformity of both the shoulders following fall due to convulsive seizure. Patient was diagnosed as being a case of grand mal epilepsy and was on regular treatment. On physical examination at the emergency, we noticed a total loss of function of both upper limbs fixed in abduction that was irreducible. In addition, we noticed the “epaulette sign” and proeminence of the acromion
[Fig.1-3]. No neurovascular abnormalities in the upper limbs were reported. Standard plain X-rays assessment of both shoulders confirmed the diagnosis of bilateral anterior-internal dislocation and no fractures were noted
[Fig.4-6]. The dislocations were reduced easily and uneventfully employing the Milch technique under analgesia and sedation.
An examination looking for a sensitive deficit was performed after the reduction. X-rays were done to confirm that the dislocation was well reduced and to eliminate a fracture
[Fig.7-8]. An immobilization was made for three weeks. Subsequently, progressive mobilization was started with pendulum exercises followed by muscle strengthening at three weeks. At follow-up the patient reported no pain and had returned to his normal activities of daily living with minimal discomfort.
Discussion
Bilateral shoulder dislocations are uncommon and almost always occur in the posterior direction. In 1902, bilateral shoulder dislocation was first found in patients in whom inordinate muscular contractions occurred as a result of Camphor overdose [
4]. Bilateral anterior dislocation of the shoulder is an uncommon entity and few cases are found in the literature.
The mechanism of posterior dislocation is that the internal rotators of the humerus (latissimus dorsi, pectoralis major and subscapularis) which are more powerful than the external rotators (infraspinatous and teres minor) cause an excessive adduction and internal rotation during the seizure which results in a posterior dislocation of the humeral head [
5]. Therefore, trauma is a more usual cause than seizures during bilateral anterior dislocation [
6]. Many authors have suggested that bilateral anterior dislocation after an epileptic seizure cannot occur during muscular contractions, but following trauma of the shoulders striking the ground after the fall [
7,
8]. The care is the same as for unilateral dislocations [
9]. Early reduction and immobilization should be ensued by final treatment, which may contain active and passive physiotherapy or surgery in the younger, more active patient group.
There is still no consensus regarding the protocol for actions after release from the emergency services. However, many authors have agreed on immobilization in internal rotation and adduction during three weeks followed by active mobilization with progressive pendular movements, plus physiotherapy [
4].
Conclusion
Bilateral asymmetric dislocation of shoulders following an epileptic fit represents an emergency imploring a quick diagnosis and reduction. The dislocation must be reduced in emergency to reduce pain and to avoid long-term complications like necrosis of the humeral head. The multidisciplinary approach to such patients can give good results. The possibility of shoulder instability must be kept in mind and need for regular follow-up.
Contributors: DG: manuscript writing, patient management; AM, MK: manuscript editing, patient management; BN: critical inputs into the manuscript. DG will act as a study guarantor. All authors approved the final version of this manuscript.
Funding: None; Competing interests: None stated.
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