Scapular fracture

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Prab R. Tumpati, MD — Editor-in-Chief, WikiMD Medical Encyclopedia
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Scapular fracture
Synonyms	Fracture of the scapula
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Shoulder pain, swelling, bruising
Complications	Pneumothorax, brachial plexus injury, rotator cuff injury
Onset	Sudden, due to trauma
Duration	Varies, depending on severity and treatment
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma, such as a fall or direct impact
Risks	High-energy trauma, osteoporosis
Diagnosis	Physical examination, X-ray, CT scan
Differential diagnosis	Clavicle fracture, rotator cuff tear, shoulder dislocation
Prevention	Use of protective gear, fall prevention strategies
Treatment	Immobilization, physical therapy, surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with appropriate treatment
Frequency	Rare, accounting for less than 1% of all fractures
Deaths	N/A

Pectoral girdles

Left scapula lateral view

Fractured glenoid

Scapular Fracture is a type of bone fracture that occurs in the scapula, also known as the shoulder blade. This type of fracture is relatively rare, accounting for less than 1% of all fractures.

Causes

Scapular fractures are typically caused by high-energy trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or a fall from a significant height. They can also occur as a result of a direct blow to the shoulder.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of a scapular fracture include pain, swelling, and bruising in the shoulder area. The individual may also have difficulty moving the arm.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a scapular fracture is typically made through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests. An X-ray is usually the first test performed, but a CT scan may also be used to provide more detailed images of the fracture.

Treatment

Treatment for a scapular fracture depends on the severity of the fracture. Non-displaced fractures, where the bone pieces are still in their normal position, can often be treated with a sling and physical therapy. Displaced fractures, where the bone pieces have moved out of position, may require surgery to realign and stabilize the bone.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, most individuals with a scapular fracture can expect to regain full function of their shoulder. However, the recovery process can be lengthy and may require extensive physical therapy.

See Also

• Bone Fracture
• Shoulder Injuries
• Physical Therapy