Other Fractures

Scapula fractures affect the large flat surface of the scapula and are typically the result of a hard fall directly onto the shoulder blade.

A typical example is a fall at speed from a motor bike. In individuals with osteoporosis a scapula fracture can occur with a simple fall at home. Most are managed in a sling and without surgery.

Glenoid fractures occur the margins of the shoulder joint on the scapula side and are largely due to the trauma of a shoulder dislocation. Surgery may be needed but depends more on the features of the dislocation than the fracture itself.

Other parts of the scapula can be fractured such as the scapula spine, the coracoid process or the acromion. Each is managed individually most without surgery.

The proximal humerus may fracture into multiple fragments or individual single pieces of bone associated with the attachment of the rotator cuff. Each of these fractures require careful assessment and if displaced surgical management as they are the attachment of the rotator cuff.