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Scapula Fracture – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A scapula fracture is a break of the shoulder blade, typically caused by high-energy trauma. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for full recovery.

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Things worth knowing about "Scapula Fracture"

A scapula fracture is a break of the shoulder blade, typically caused by high-energy trauma. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for full recovery.

What Is a Scapula Fracture?

A scapula fracture is a break of the shoulder blade (scapula), a flat, triangular bone located on the posterior side of the shoulder girdle. Because the scapula is well protected by surrounding muscles and soft tissues, fractures of this bone are relatively uncommon, accounting for only about 1% of all fractures. When they do occur, they typically indicate significant trauma and are frequently associated with other injuries.

Causes

Scapula fractures are most commonly caused by high-energy direct trauma. Typical causes include:

Motor vehicle accidents (especially motorcycle and bicycle collisions)
Falls from height
Direct blows or crush injuries to the shoulder region
Sports injuries in contact sports

Less commonly, scapula fractures can result from strong muscular traction forces (avulsion fractures) or stress fractures due to repetitive overuse.

Classification

Scapula fractures are classified based on the anatomical area involved:

Body fractures: Fractures of the scapular body – the most common type
Glenoid fractures: Fractures of the joint socket (glenoid cavity), particularly relevant for shoulder stability
Acromion fractures: Fractures of the acromion (roof of the shoulder)
Coracoid fractures: Fractures of the coracoid process
Scapular neck fractures: Fractures through the neck of the scapula near the glenoid

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a scapula fracture include:

Severe pain in the shoulder and upper back region
Swelling and bruising (hematoma) over the affected area
Restricted movement of the arm and shoulder
Tenderness on palpation over the scapula
Possible numbness or weakness if nerves are involved

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a scapula fracture is established through the following investigations:

Clinical examination: Assessment of pain, range of motion, and neurological function
X-ray: Standard imaging in two planes as an initial evaluation
Computed tomography (CT): Detailed assessment of fracture geometry, essential for glenoid and comminuted fractures
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Evaluation of soft tissue structures, ligaments, and nerve injuries

Since scapula fractures often result from high-energy trauma, associated injuries must always be assessed – particularly rib fractures, pneumothorax, vascular and nerve injuries, and damage to adjacent shoulder structures.

Treatment

Conservative Treatment

The majority of scapula fractures (approximately 80–90%) can be managed conservatively. This applies especially to non-displaced or minimally displaced fractures:

Immobilization of the arm in a sling or Gilchrist bandage for 2–4 weeks
Pain management with anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac)
Early physiotherapy to prevent shoulder stiffness and restore range of motion

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is indicated in specific situations:

Significantly displaced glenoid fractures causing shoulder joint instability
Fractures with substantial angulation of the scapular neck
Open fractures or those involving vascular or nerve injury
Combined injuries such as a floating shoulder

During surgery, bone fragments are repositioned and secured with screws and plates (open reduction and internal fixation, ORIF).

Recovery and Prognosis

Healing of a scapula fracture typically takes 6–12 weeks. With targeted physiotherapy, most patients can achieve a full return to shoulder function. Following severe or surgically treated fractures, rehabilitation may take several months. The long-term prognosis is generally favorable in the absence of significant associated injuries.

References

Zlowodzki M, Bhandari M, Zelle BA, Kregor PJ, Cole PA. Treatment of scapula fractures: systematic review of 520 fractures in 22 case series. Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma. 2006;20(3):230-233.
Lippitt SB, Matsen FA. Mechanisms of glenohumeral joint stability. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research. 1993;(291):20-28.
Cole PA, Gauger EM, Schroder LK. Management of scapular fractures. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2012;20(3):130-141.

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