Scapular Fracture

A scapular fracture is a break in one of the bones that make up the shoulder blade, also known as the scapula. The scapula is a flat, triangular bone located at the back of the chest wall, and it plays a crucial role in forming the shoulder joint.

Causes

Scapular fractures are typically caused by high-energy trauma, such as:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Falls from a height
• Sports injuries, particularly those involving contact or collision
• Direct blows to the shoulder or back

Symptoms

The symptoms of a scapular fracture may include:

• Pain in the shoulder or upper back
• Swelling and bruising around the affected area
• Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand
• Deformity of the shoulder blade

Types of Scapular Fractures

There are several types of scapular fractures, including:

• Proximal humerus fracture: a break in the upper part of the arm bone that meets the scapula
• Scapular body fracture: a break in the main body of the scapula
• Scapular neck fracture: a break in the narrow part of the scapula that connects to the arm bone
• Acromion fracture: a break in the bony projection off the top of the scapula
• Coracoid process fracture: a break in the small hook-like structure at the front of the scapula

Treatment

Treatment for a scapular fracture depends on the severity and location of the break. Conservative treatment may include:

• Pain management with medication
• Immobilization in a sling or shoulder immobilizer
• Physical therapy to maintain range of motion and strength

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to:

• Reduce and stabilize the fracture with plates, screws, or wires
• Repair damaged surrounding tissues, such as muscles, tendons, or ligaments

Complications

Possible complications of a scapular fracture include:

• Nerve damage or numbness
• Blood vessel damage or bleeding
• Infection
• Malunion or nonunion of the fracture
• Chronic pain or stiffness

Recovery

The recovery time for a scapular fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper care and rehabilitation, most people can expect to regain full range of motion and strength in their shoulder within several months.