Anterosuperior dislocation of the shoulder joint in an older patient with Parkinson's disease.

An 83-year-old woman, subsequently diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, fell on her right shoulder. Radiographs showed the humeral head dislocated anterosuperiorly. The supraspinatus tendon was massively disrupted and judged irreparable. The subscapularis tendon was repaired, however re-dislocation of the humeral head was confirmed after the surgery but further treatment was rejected as she was almost pain free and had a low activity level. The patient was followed up for one year after surgery and her shoulder became almost pain-free, but range of motion with active elevation was limited. In such cases a goal of absence or reduction of pain rather than real repair might be considered appropriate.