Could a bedside ultrasound replace X-Rays for shoulder dislocations?
NCT ID NCT04703517
First seen Jul 20, 2026 · Last updated Jul 21, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study compares the standard X-ray with a bedside ultrasound to confirm that a dislocated shoulder has been successfully put back into place. Adults with an acute shoulder dislocation will receive both tests in the emergency department, allowing doctors to see if the ultrasound matches the X-ray results. If ultrasound proves reliable, it could offer a faster, radiation-free alternative for confirming shoulder reduction.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- point-of-care ultrasound
- What this could lead to
- If ultrasound proves as reliable as X-ray, it could speed up care, reduce radiation exposure, and lower costs for shoulder dislocation patients.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage comparison study. Ultrasound may not detect certain complications as well as X-ray, and results may not apply to all patients.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Started
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Jan 2021
- Finished
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Dec 2021
- Lead sponsor
-
Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
-
Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
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Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults greater than or equal to 18 years * Acute shoulder dislocation Exclusion Criteria: * Associated fracture * Associated neurovascular injury
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
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