Kocher's method of shoulder reduction
Last reviewed 01/2018
This is a complex manoeuvre which has recently fallen into disfavour due to it's potential complications compared to those of other methods.
The details of the method are outlined below:
- flexion of the elbow to a right angle
- traction in the line of the humerus
- external rotation of the arm: this brings the head of the humerus to face forwards
- the elbow is pulled across the body: this adducts the humerus and disengages the humeral head
- internal rotation of the arm: this lets the humeral head fall back into the glenoid
It is necessary to x-ray the shoulder to confirm the reduction.
Complications include:
- nerve damage (greater risk than other techniques)
- fracture of the humerus