Publication:

Short and medium term outcome of surgical treatment of the floating shoulder

Background Floating shoulder are rare injuries just because of high velocity of trauma and road traffic accidents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome of surgically treated clavicle, glenoid and both bone injuries.

Methods This prospective study was conducted in the department of orthopaedics, Sir. T. Hospital, Bhavnagar from October 2009 to November 2013. Out of 25 patients all turned up for follow up. Functional and clinical assessments done with range of movements in surgically treated fractures of clavicle, glenoid and both bone group.

Results All bone fractures are united in all the patients. The mean follow up period was 30 months. The mean functional result was assessed using Rowe score to assesses the function, pain, stability and motion. All the cases showed excellent to fair results after follow up period.

Conclusions Surgical treatment for double disruption of the superior shoulder suspensory complex, which is inherently an unstable and rare injury, is a good option, allowing early rehabilitation and improving the functional outcome.