Fracture of the Scapula (Shoulder Blade)

The scapula (shoulder blade) is a flat, triangular bone providing attachment to the muscles of the back, neck, chest and arm. The scapula has a body, neck and spine portion.

Scapular fractures are uncommon but do occur and require a large amount of force to fracture. They are usually the result of intense trauma, such as a high-speed motor vehicle accident or a fall from a height onto one’s back. They can also occur from a fall onto an outstretched arm if the humeral head impacts on the glenoid cavity.

Symptoms of a scapular fracture include the following:

• Pain: Usually immediately following injury to the scapula.
• Swelling: The scapular area quickly swells following the injury.
• Bruising: Bruising occurs soon after injury.
• Impaired Mobility: Decreased range of motion of the joint occurs, often with inability to straighten the arm.
• Numbness: Numbness, tingling, or coldness of the hand and forearm can occur if nerves are injured or there is a rare injury to the blood supply to the arm.
• Popping Sound: A cracking or popping sound, also referred to as crepitus, can often be heard or felt at the time of the fracture.

Scapular fractures should be evaluated by an orthopaedic surgeon for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Your surgeon will perform the following:

• Medical History
• Physical Examination

Diagnostic Studies may include:

• X-rays: A form of electromagnetic radiation that is used to take pictures of bones.
• CT scan: This test creates images from multiple X-rays and shows your physician structures not seen on regular X-ray.
• MRI: Magnetic and radio waves are used to create a computer image of soft tissue such as nerves and ligaments.

Most scapular fractures are not significantly displaced due to the strong supporting soft tissue structures surrounding it. Therefore, most scapular fractures are treated conservatively and with early motion to reduce the risk of stiffness and will usually heal without affecting shoulder movement.

Conservative treatment options include:

• Immobilization: A sling is used for comfort and to support the shoulder. This is usually worn for about 3-6 weeks depending on your pain level.
• Prescription Medications: Pain medications will be prescribed for your comfort during the healing process.
• Physical Therapy: Early progressive range of motion exercises is essential in restoring full shoulder function. Your physician will most likely refer you to a Physical Therapist for instruction on proper exercises and early motion of the shoulder to prevent complications.

Surgical Treatment

Fractures of the scapula involving the neck or glenoid or with severe displacement have been associated with poor outcomes when treated non-operatively. Such fractures will usually require surgical intervention to realign the bones properly and to restore a functional, pain free range of motion to the shoulder joint.

Scapula fracture surgery has historically been performed through large, open incisions. Newer, minimally invasive techniques have evolved and surgery to repair some scapular fractures can now be performed arthroscopically.