Introduction: Floating clavicle or bipolar clavicular dislocation is a rare and little-known affection of the shoulder girdle. Through a case report and a review of the literature, the authors discuss the pathogenesis, the diagnostic approach and the treatment of this pathology. Synthesis of facts: An athlete, a 35-year-old cyclist, presented a high-energy trauma to the right shoulder following a fall at a high speed. Computed tomography (CT) with three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions showed Rockwood type V acromioclavicular dislocation and antero-inferior sternoclavicular dislocation. Surgical treatment was performed with open reduction and pinning of the sternoclavicular and acromioclavicular joint. Evolution was towards secondary displacement and anterior sternoclavicular subluxation at six weeks, contrasting with a favorable clinical outcome at the last follow-up. Conclusion: Floating clavicle is a rare but potentially disabling traumatic lesion. Its diagnosis has benefited from the contribution of CT with 3D reconstruction for a precise assessment of the lesions. In young and active patients, anatomic open reduction and adequate stabilization are recommended.
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