Coracoid process fracture diagnosis in acromioclavicular separation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Acromioclavicular (AC) separation is a common shoulder injury.
• Coracoid process avulsion fractures are rare, especially in conjunction with AC separation.
• The coracoid base epiphyseal plate's integrity in adolescents is a key consideration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present cases of coracoid process avulsion associated with AC separation.
• To emphasize the diagnostic utility of specific radiographic views.
• To inform orthopedic surgeons about this injury pattern for treatment planning.

Main Methods:

• Case series presentation of three patients (two adolescents, one young adult).
• Radiographic analysis, including a cranially-angled view of the shoulder.
• Clinical correlation and orthopedic management considerations.

Main Results:

• Three cases of coracoid process avulsion from the scapula were identified.
• The injury pattern was associated with acromioclavicular separation.
• A cranially-angled shoulder view proved diagnostic in two of the three cases.

Conclusions:

• Adolescents may be susceptible to coracoid process avulsion due to a weaker coracoid base epiphyseal plate compared to coracoclavicular ligaments.
• Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate surgical planning, particularly for clavicle fixation in AC separations.
• Radiographic assessment, including specialized views, is critical for identifying this injury.