A Novel Technique to Reduce Anterior Shoulder Dislocation Without Anesthesia - A Prospective Analysis

Background Shoulder dislocation is one of the most common injuries encountered in daily practice. Among shoulder dislocations, anterior shoulder dislocation is the most common variant. There are many techniques described to reduce a dislocated shoulder. Reduction of a dislocated shoulder joint may be performed under anesthesia or without anesthesia. In this study, we have evaluated the efficacy of Prakash's method in reducing anterior shoulder dislocations without anesthesia. Methodology This study is a prospective study that was conducted from March 2018 to February 2020 in the department of joint replacement and orthopedics in Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur. One hundred two shoulders fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in this study, and observations were noted. Results The results were statistically analyzed, and it was found that this new method was successful in reducing 97.06% shoulders without any anesthesia. Out of the total 102 patients enrolled in this study, 17 (n=102, 16.67%) patients had left-sided shoulder dislocation, and 85 (n=102, 83.33%) patients had right-sided shoulder dislocation. In 91.18% (n=90 out of 102) of the patients, the reduction could be achieved on the first attempt. A second attempt was needed in 7.84% (n=8 out of 102). No complications were noted. Conclusion Prakash's method to reduce anterior shoulder dislocation is a simple technique to reduce dislocated shoulders. Through our study, we conclude that it is also an effective technique for reducing anteriorly dislocated shoulders. As there is no requirement of anesthesia, we recommend that orthopedic surgeons as well as emergency care providers should acquaint themselves with this technique.