Bilateral scapular fractures from low-voltage electrical injury

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Traumatology
• Electrical Injury Medicine

Background:

• Tetanic muscle contractions from electrical injuries can lead to characteristic fractures.
• Scapular fractures are a known, albeit uncommon, consequence of electrical trauma.
• Understanding the mechanism is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• A 43-year-old male sustained bilateral scapular fractures from a 440-volt electrical injury.
• The current passed through his upper extremities, causing intense muscle tetany.
• No associated fall or direct trauma was reported.

Findings:

• Conservative management, including immobilization and physical therapy, was successful.
• Fracture healing occurred within six weeks.
• Full shoulder function was restored after six months of follow-up.

Implications:

• Physicians should consider scapular fractures in electrical injury cases, even without external trauma.
• Early diagnosis and conservative treatment can lead to excellent functional outcomes.
• This case underscores the biomechanical effects of electrical current on musculoskeletal structures.