ABSTRACT
A dislocation is a complete disruption of a joint so that the articular surfaces are no longer in contact. Most often, the cause of the dislocation is a traumatic event and the result is a loss of structural stability of the joint. Traumatic dislocation usually causes pain, deformity of the involved extremity, and marked limitation of joint motion. Appropriate treatment of a dislocation involves careful neurovascular evaluation, radiographic studies, and prompt reduction of the involved joint. Complications and long-term sequelae of traumatic dislocation include neurovascular injuries, avascular necrosis, heterotopic bone formation, posttraumatic arthritis, musculotendinous injuries, joint instability, and joint stiffness.
