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Epidemiology and classification of scapular fractures: a detailed survey on a large sample of patients

  • 0Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
Jses International +

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September 17, 2025

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September 17, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Scapular fractures are equally common in males and females but differ in age distribution and injury mechanisms. This study provides updated epidemiological data using the latest classification system for scapular fractures.

Area Of Science

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Trauma Epidemiology
  • Radiology

Background

  • Scapular fractures are rare, with limited recent epidemiological studies.
  • Existing research often has small sample sizes or uses outdated classifications.
  • There is a need for comprehensive data on scapular fracture epidemiology using current classification systems.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To conduct a detailed retrospective analysis of a large patient cohort with scapular fractures.
  • To provide updated epidemiological information on scapular fractures.
  • To classify these fractures using the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO)/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) system.

Main Methods

  • Retrospective review of clinical and radiological data from 243 patients over 7 years.
  • Collection of data on age, gender, fracture side, and traumatic mechanism.
  • Classification of fractures using the AO/OTA system.

Main Results

  • Scapular fractures accounted for 0.9% of all fractures and 6% of shoulder girdle fractures.
  • Males were more often under 75, females over 75; right side more involved.
  • Significant associations found between gender and AO/OTA classification, with females more prone to type F and males to type B fractures.

Conclusions

  • Scapular fractures affect both genders equally but with distinct age and mechanism profiles.
  • Females are typically older, experiencing low-energy fractures; males, especially younger ones, sustain high-energy injuries.
  • Aging males become more susceptible to fragility fractures.

Keywords:

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