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DOS Kongressen 2016 ·
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The Noergaard technique, a simple and non-traumatic
method for reduction of anterior shoulder dislocations
Nikolaj Erin-Madsen, Ilija Ban, Morten Grove Thomsen, Jens Noergaard, Peter
Toft Tengberg
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Slagelse Sygehus; Department of
Orthopedic Surgery, Hvidovre Hospital; Department of Orthopedic Surgery,
Hvidovre Hospital; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Frederiksberg Hospital;
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hvidovre
Background:
The Noergaard technique is an atraumatic reduction method that
has proven successful for reduction of anterior shoulder dislocations through
several years of practice in the emergency department (ED). It can be per-
formed by experienced ED nurses giving verbal instructions to the patient.
Purpose / Aim of Study:
We describe the technique and evaluate the re-
sults of the technique through a retrospective analysis of patients admitted and
treated in the ED in a 1-year period.
Materials and Methods:
The patient is placed standing in an upright position
in front of the rail on a hospital bed. Legs should be comfortably stretched with
a wide well balanced stance. The patient is then instructed to bend forwards,
resting the forehead on the back of the non-affected forearm, which is put on
the rail. The affected arm should now be relaxed and stretched, hanging straight
down toward the floor. The patient is then instructed to attempt to relax and
make pendular and circular motions with the affected arm hanging down.
Findings / Results:
Our results show a successrate of 77% when using the
Noergaard technique. 114 patients were diagnosed with anterior disloca-
tion. Reduction was primarily attempted in 67 patients by the means of the
Noergaard technique, 22 patients had their shoulder reduced by means of a
different reduction method and in 25 patients the reduction technique was not
described. Successful reduction was achieved in a total of 52 by means of the
Noergaard technique. 10 patients in whom the Noergaard technique was un-
successful the shoulder was reduced by means of a different technique in the
ED and another 5 were admitted for closed shoulder reduction under general
anesthesia in the operating room.
Conclusions:
Based on our results and experience we recommend the use of
this technique as a first line of treatment in anterior shoulder dislocations.
No conflicts of interest reported
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