Epiphyseal separation of the proximal humerus after birth trauma.

The purpose of this study was to report a new entity of epiphyseal slipping, which is a slipping of the upper humeral epiphysis in neonates due to birth trauma, and reporting the results of their management. Eight neonates presented with pseudo-paralysis with associated shoulder swelling and pain on passive movements of the upper limb; the radiographs revealed slipping of the proximal humeral epiphyses in six cases and associated shoulder dislocations in the other 2 cases. Failed attempts of closed reduction were done for all cases; they were managed through open reduction of the slipping and relocation of the glenohumeral joint when dislocated. The deltopectoral approach was used for management, and the slipping was fixed with k-wires through the skin. A full painless range of motion of the shoulder was achieved in all patients; no limb-length discrepancy or deformity was detected and no recurrent shoulder dislocation. In the last follow-up, all radiographs showed an anatomic reduction of the epiphyses, and all the epiphyseal plates were open. All cases showed normally growing well-formed epiphyses with no evidence of a vascular necrosis or collapse. A new entity of epiphyseal slipping was reported in this study; slipping of the upper humeral epiphysis in neonates due to birth trauma whether it is associated with shoulder dislocation or not is a benign injury with excellent results with open reduction.