1. A case is reported of traumatic dislocation of the shoulder joint complicated by rupture of the axillary artery and vein and complete brachial plexus palsy. Whether the rupture occurred at the time of injury or during reduction is not known.

2. Despite a delay of five weeks before operative treatment was undertaken the usefulness of the arm was preserved.

3. After rupture of the axillary artery at this level an adequate collateral circulation is rapidly established in a healthy young adult.

4. The case illustrates the importance of careful examination of the peripheral nervous and vascular systems before and after reduction of a dislocated shoulder.