Time to Diagnosis of Glenohumeral Joint Dislocations in the ED- Traditional Radiography vs. POC Ultrasound

Time to Diagnosis of Glenohumeral Joint Dislocations in the Emergency Department- Traditional Radiography Versus Point-of-care Ultrasound

This is study to compare the time to diagnosis of glenohumeral joint dislocation using two imaging methods, traditional x-ray and point-of-care ultrasound. Participants who present at the emergency department complaining of shoulder injury and who are suspected of having a possible glenohumeral shoulder dislocation will be eligible for the study. A reduction of the joint will be performed if imaging findings so indicate. All participants will receive a post-reduction x-ray and be referred to appropriate follow-up care.

This is a prospective comparison study evaluating the time to diagnosis of glenohumeral joint dislocation using two imaging modalities, traditional x-ray and point-of-care ultrasound. Eligible participants will include those who present to the emergency department with complaints of shoulder injury who are suspected by triage nursing of having a possible glenohumeral shoulder dislocation. Eligible participants will be consented by participating physicians and randomized into ultrasound or x-ray groups. If indicated based on the imaging findings, a reduction of the joint will be performed. All patients will receive a post-reduction x-ray and be referred to appropriate follow-up care based on the findings of their evaluation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients (19 and older in state of Nebraska) who present to the emergency department with shoulder pain/injury and potential shoulder dislocation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Injury sustained in major traumatic event (trauma activation), unable to consent, in extremis, less then 19 years of age