Presentation
Presented with shoulder pain one day after rugby tackle. Direct impact with patient's right shoulder vs opposing player's hip.
Patient Data
Plain films show fracture of scapula spine + concern for extension into glenoid (seen on second image).
CT confirms comminuted scapular fracture. Predominantly through the glenoid but also the spine and inferior border.
Case Discussion
Scapular fractures are uncommon shoulder injuries. They are often caused by direct trauma to the shoulder as in this case. They are also often caused by high energy trauma.
They are often associated with other significant injuries including spinal fractures, pneumothorax, brachial plexus injuries, rib, clavicle and sternal fractures. Fortunately, none of these other injuries were present in this case.