Patient Information article by William Freudenthal MD

Author: Joseph C Schmidt, MD, Assistant Professor, Program Director, Department of Emergency Medicine, Baystate Medical Center
Synonyms and related keywords: scapula, scapular fractures, acromion injuries, scapular neck fractures, glenoid rim fractures, glenoid fracture, stellate glenoid fractures, coracoid process fractures, coracoid fracture, shoulder girdle injuries
The primary function of the scapula is to attach the upper extremity to the thorax and provide a stabilized platform for upper extremity movement. The scapula is attached to the clavicle by the acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments and articulates with the humerus. The scapula is protected by its surrounding musculature (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis) and its ability to move along the wall of the thorax; the body and spine of the scapula are most protected. Fractures to scapular structures typically require significant force. These factors explain the infrequent occurrence of scapular fractures.

Authors Goss & Cantu
Synonyms and related keywords: glenoid fracture, acromion fracture, coracoid fracture, scapulothoracic dissociation, double disruption of the superior shoulder suspensory complex
Traumatic injuries of the scapula have received little attention in the literature because they are uncommon. Scapula fractures account for approximately 1% of all fractures. Most scapula fractures can be effectively managed with closed treatment. Some injuries with significant displacement have poor long-term outcomes for the shoulder and the upper extremity as a whole if treated with closed techniques. This article reviews closed management of scapula fractures, discusses open treatment, and provides guidelines for injuries that require operative intervention.

most common scapular frx are frx of the body, followed by the neck, glenoid, and acromion; - associated injuries: seen in upto 80-90% of patients;