Diagnosis and Treatment of Scapular Fractures in Children and Adolescents

A Critical Analysis Review

Abstract

• » Fractures of the growing scapula account for about 0.1% of all pediatric fractures, with the majority occurring at an age of ≥10 years.
• » Radiographic diagnosis requires a detailed knowledge of the ossification sequence of the growing scapula. Computed tomography examination is indicated for displaced fractures of the glenoid fossa, the scapular neck, and complex fractures; magnetic resonance imaging should be performed in cases of suspected injury to the physis and with stress fractures, depending on patient age and the potential need for general anesthesia during the scanning process.
• » Separation of the base of the coracoid process is often associated with acromioclavicular dislocation. Clavicular fractures rarely occur in combination with injuries to the growing scapula.
• » The majority of scapular fractures can be treated nonoperatively. Indications for surgery are displaced intra-articular fractures, scapular neck fractures with a displacement of >2 cm, coracoid base separation associated with acromioclavicular dislocation, and scapulothoracic dissociation.
• » Displaced intra-articular fractures of the glenoid fossa should be followed after healing until skeletal maturity. Complications are rare and occur most frequently with scapulothoracic dissociation.