A rare cause of pediatric dysphagia: posterior dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint.

Rarely do orthopedic injuries in children present with dysphagia. Acute onset dysphagia after falling or getting tackled with subtle symptoms or unremarkable physical examination findings should raise suspicion for posterior dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ). A case is described and used to highlight an uncommon cause of dysphagia in children. It can be easily missed because the presenting symptoms and physical examination findings are subtle. Standard radiographs are not sufficient for diagnosis, and a high degree of suspicion is necessary to pursue further diagnostic studies. Open reduction and internal fixation can be effective for improving their symptoms, often immediately postoperatively.

Duke Scholars

Author Jeffrey Cheng Pediatric Otolaryngology