Body of the scapula

Fractures of the body of the scapula are more commonly displaced.

A fracture of the body of the scapula has no impact on the stability of the glenoidal component. However, displacements can influence shoulder function and should be evaluated according to the principles used in the trauma section of the AO Surgery Reference.

• Direct high-energy posterior impact on the scapula
• Lateral impact on the shoulder girdle
• Associated rib, clavicular, and spinal fractures are frequent

• Pain
• Decreased range of motion
• Weakness in the shoulder
• Hematoma
• Morel-Lavallee lesion
• Symptoms may not resolve with union of the fracture
• Dislocation of the prosthesis may occur

• Standard trauma x-rays
• A CT scan is recommended to evaluate the fracture and to plan reconstruction
• 3D rendering may be helpful for assessment