Scapulothoracic Dissociation With Polytrauma Following a High-Velocity Motor Vehicle Collision

Scapulothoracic dissociation (STD) is a rare, limb- and life-threatening injury after high-energy trauma and is frequently obscured by concomitant injuries. This case report details a young adult male with a left open STD following a high-velocity motor vehicle collision. The patient was assessed promptly and managed according to Advanced Trauma Life Support principles with rapid hemodynamic stabilization and early cross-disciplinary coordination, and proceeded to emergency forequarter amputation as part of the damage-control strategy. Postoperatively, he received integrated critical care and a structured, team-based rehabilitation program. This case emphasizes the central importance of early recognition, expeditious resuscitation, a coordinated multidisciplinary approach to optimize trauma outcomes, and early, comprehensive rehabilitation to support recovery after a devastating injury and surgery.