Scapular dislocation following radical surgical excision of lung sarcomatoid carcinoma: A rare case report

Abstract

Rationale: Scapular prolapse is a rare complication of thoracotomy. Only a few cases of scapular prolapse after thoracotomy have been reported. Here, we report the case of a 52-year-old male patient who underwent standard posterior thoracotomy for lung sarcomatoid carcinoma invading the left upper chest wall.

Patient concerns: The surgery was performed to remove some ribs and chest wall muscles; however, no reconstruction or repair of the chest wall defect was performed. The patient experienced a sharp pain and severe limitation of movement of the left shoulder within 1 month of receiving adjuvant therapy.

Diagnoses: The patient was diagnosed with left intrathoracic scapular prolapse after careful consideration of medical history, physical examination, and chest radiography.

Interventions: We performed closed manual reduction because the patient refused to undergo surgery.

Outcomes: The patient's shoulder pain and movement limitation were significantly relieved, but the symptoms relapsed. After repeated closed manual reduction, the patient was instructed not to abduct the shoulder joint above 90°. The patient did not relapse during a 1-year observation period.

Conclusion: If scapular prolapse occurs, manual or surgical reduction can be selected based on the needs. If a patient refuses to undergo surgery, manual reduction can be an effective treatment method.