Fracture scapula

Ray Ballinger, MD, PhD

Straub Clinic and Hospital

rballinger at straub.net

Abstract

22 y/o man injured shoulder body surfing

Keywords

msk plain fracture scapula

History and Images

22 y/o man injured shoulder body surfing

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Findings

A complex displaced fracture of the body of the scapula is noted. The anatomy is best displaced by 3D reconstructed CT images of the scapula as shown below. The first and second images are from posterior; the third is an anterior view.

Diagnosis

Fracture scapula

Confirmation:

CT scan and surgical reduction and internal fixation.

Discussion

Fractures of the scapula are infrequent, most often occuring in the body. The cause of a fracture in this part of the scapula is usually the result of direct trauma and is frequently associated with rib fractures and pneumothorax (though not in this case). This patient elected to have internal reduction and fixation as a result of continued pain.