Bipolar clavicular dislocation.

Bipolar clavicular dislocation rarely occurs. Although referred to by several different names (panclavicular dislocation, bifocal clavicle dislocation, traumatic floating clavicle, and periarticular clavicle dislocation), knowledge regarding appropriate treatment of this condition is limited. Conservative therapy remains the gold standard in asymptomatic individuals. In younger individuals with higher functional demands, or individuals with persistent pain or instability, open reduction with internal fixation of the acromioclavicular joint has also proven successful. In situations with continued medial instability, internal fixation can be used at both the acromioclavicular joint and sternoclavicular joint.Chronic bipolar dislocation may require total claviculectomy, especially when chronic dislocation has led to nonviable acromioclavicular and sternoclavicular joint viability. This article presents a chronic case of bipolar dislocation treated by complete claviculectomy. Copyright 2011, SLACK Incorporated.