Mapping of scapular fractures with three-dimensional computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology
• Radiology

Background:

• Scapular fractures present unique treatment challenges.
• Understanding fracture patterns is crucial for optimal management.
• This study focused on surgically treated scapular body and/or neck fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a frequency map of surgically treated scapular fractures.
• To identify common patterns in scapular body and neck fractures.

Main Methods:

• Prospective database of operative scapular fracture cases.
• 3D computed tomography (CT) images were used.
• Fracture lines were traced on a 3D scapular model to create a fracture map.

Main Results:

• 68% of fractures involved the inferior glenoid neck; 71% involved the superior vertebral border.
• 17% had articular extension, 22% entered the spinoglenoid notch.
• Fractures of the inferior glenoid neck commonly extended to the vertebral border; spinoglenoid notch fractures showed predictable patterns, unlike variable articular fractures.

Conclusions:

• Surgically treated scapular fractures exhibit distinct, common patterns.
• The most frequent pattern involves the lateral border inferior to the glenoid, extending to the superior vertebral border.
• Articular and spinoglenoid notch fractures are less common and show greater pattern variability.