Scapular Fractures Research Articles

Treatment and outcome in combined scapula and rib fractures: a retrospective study.

The primary aim was to describe the population characteristics of patients with combined scapula and rib fractures and outcomes associated with different treatment strategies. All adult (≥ 18years) patients with concurrent ipsilateral scapula and rib fractures admitted to the study hospital between 1st January 2010 and 31st June 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 223 patients were admitted with concurrent ipsilateral rib and scapula fractures. A total of 160 patients (72%) were treated conservatively, 63 patients (28%) operatively. Among operatively treated patients, 32 (51%) underwent rib fixation (RF) only, 24 (38%) underwent scapula fixation (SF) only, and seven patients (11%) underwent combined fixation of scapula and ribs (SRF). In general, more severely injured patients were treated with more extensive surgery. RF patients had a median hospital length of stay of 16days, the SF patients 11days and SRF patients 18days. There were no significant differences in complications (pneumonia, recurrent pneumothorax and revision surgery) between groups. Injury severity resulted in different treatment modalities. As a result, different patient characteristics between treatment groups were observed, which makes direct comparison between treatment modalities impossible. All treatment modalities seem feasible; however, the additional value of both rib and scapula fixation has yet to be proven in large multicentre studies.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty using an onlay humeral prosthesis, offset humeral tray, and augmented glenoid baseplate: surgical technique and review of the impact of prosthesis design on scapular fractures following reverse shoulder arthroplasty

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has become the most utilized form of arthroplasty of the shoulder. Acromial stress fractures and scapular spine stress fractures are rare, yet well-recognized complications of RSA with ongoing studies identifying whether patient factors or prosthetic designs serve as risk factors. Specifically, it remains unclear if or how the position of the humeral tray (inlay or onlay) in RSA affects rates of periscapular fractures. The purpose of this article is to describe our technique for RSA using an onlay prosthesis, a variable-offset humeral tray, and an augmented glenoid baseplate, as well as to review the published results of acromial and scapular spine fractures after RSA based on humeral implant design.

Inlay versus onlay humeral design for reverse shoulder arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Since the introduction of the Grammont-style reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, the humeral stem design has been modified with improved clinical outcomes. Two distinct humeral designs have been used extensively: the inlay design, in which the humeral tray is seated within the metaphysis, and the onlay design, in which the humeral tray sits on the metaphysis at the level of the humeral neck cut. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine whether there are differences in clinical outcomes and complication rates between these designs. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to perform this systematic review. A search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and Embase was performed to identify all studies comparing the clinical results of both humeral designs. Primary outcomes included patient-reported outcome measures, shoulder range of motion, and incidence of complications. From the 156 identified publications, 12 studies were included in the final review. A total of 1447 patients were included, with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. At final follow-up, both implants demonstrated significant improvements in comparison to preoperative baseline. On comparison of the inlay vs. onlay groups, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was higher in the inlay group (mean difference, 2.53 [95% confidence interval, 0.27-4.78]; P=.03). Postoperative motion, even if statistically greater in the onlay group (differences of 5° in forward flexion [P<.001], 3° in abduction [P=.003], and 4° in external rotation [P<.001]), was not clinically different. On comparison of complications, the inlay group showed more instances of scapular notching (93 of 322 patients vs. 70 of 415 patients; odds ratio, 0.35; P<.001) but fewer scapular spine fractures (26 of 727 patients vs. 21 of 559 patients, P=.09). Inlay and onlay humeral tray designs in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty demonstrate similar clinical improvements postoperatively. Onlay implants have a low rate of scapular notching but a higher rate of scapular spine fracture. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the 2 humeral tray designs is important to provide surgeons with options to tailor surgical plans for high-risk patients.

Estudio observacional retrospectivo correlacionando las fracturas traumáticas de pelvis y sus lesiones asociadas según la clasificación de Tile

IntroductionPelvic fractures due to high energy trauma present a high risk of associated injuries that compromise the functional and vital prognosis of the patients. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between traumatic pelvic fractures and their associated injuries according to the Tile classification. MethodsRetrospective observational study of patients who suffered traumatic pelvic fractures (Type A, B or C of the Tile classification) with concomitant associated injuries, analyzing hemoglobin levels, between 6/2013 and 1/2016. ResultsA total of 42 patients were included; of those 69% (n=29) were males, mean age was 48 years. 45% (n=19) suffered traffic accidents and 26.2% (n=11) falls. There was a different proportion in pelvic injuries: Tile A (n=15, 35.7%), B (n=20, 47.6%), and C (n=7, 16.6%) of cases. 54.8% (n=23) underwent surgery, 21.4% (n=9) needed temporary or definitive external fixation. Significant differences were found between Tile A type and scapula fractures (P=.032), and Tile B with sacral fractures (P=.033) and visceral injuries (P=.049), while there is a tendency without a statistical significal between Tile C and costal fractures. 61.9% (n=26) needed blood transfusion; 9.5% (n=4) presented hypovolemic shock. ConclusionsTile A pelvic fractures were associated with scapular fractures, and Tile B with transforaminal fractures of the sacrum and with visceral injuries (lungs, liver and genitourinary). The small number of Tile C prevent us to confirm an association with any pathology, although they are the ones which presnt more hemodynamically instability and thoracic injuries.

Clinical results of conservative versus operative treatment of acromial and scapular spine fractures following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

Acromial and scapular spine fractures are common complications after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). There is limited information on the treatment outcome of these fractures. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcome of operative and conservative treatment of patients with acromial or scapular spine fractures. A total of 1146 RTSAs were performed in our institution between 1999 and 2016. In 23 patients (2%), we identified an acromial fracture, and in 7 cases (0.6%), a scapular spine fracture in the postoperative course. Of those patients, 7 patients (23%) were treated with open reduction and internal fixation and 23 (77%) were treated conservatively. We compared the outcome of operative vs. conservative treatment assessing the Constant score (CS), range of motion, and subjective shoulder value (SSV). Fractures were classified by the system of Crosby. Radiographic assessment consisted of measuring the healing rate, time to heal, and the displacement of the acromion before and immediately after the fracture as well as after treatment. There were no statistically significant differences between operative and conservative treatment. The mean preoperative CS in the operative group was 32 points and improved to 45 points after surgery, whereas it was 35 points in the conservative group and improved to 61 points at the final follow-up. The mean SSV improved from 20 to 50 points in the operative group and from 22 to 58 points in the conservative group. Mean active flexion changed from 59° to 75°, mean abduction from 68° to 67°, and external rotation from 25° to 13° in the operative group and from 75° to 91°, 67° to 92°, and 28° to 24° in the conservative group. In our study, operative treatment was not superior to conservative treatment, neither for CS, SSV, or range of motion. Both treatment forms, however, resulted in inferior results to those previously reported for RTSA without postoperative acromion fractures. Before better surgical methods have been developed, conservative treatment of acromial fractures may be the better treatment option for acromial fractures after RTSA.

Retrospective observational study correlating traumatic pelvic fractures and their associated injuries according to the Tile classification

IntroductionPelvic fractures due to high energy trauma present a high risk of associated injuries that compromise the functional and vital prognosis of the patients. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between traumatic pelvic fractures and their associated injuries according to the Tile classification. MethodsRetrospective observational study of patients who suffered traumatic pelvic fractures (Type A, B or C of the Tile classification) with concomitant associated injuries, analyzing hemoglobin levels, between 6/2013 and 1/2016. ResultsA total of 42 patients were included; of those 69% (n = 29) were males, mean age was 48 years. 45% (n = 19) suffered traffic accidents and 26.2% (n = 11) falls. There was a different proportion in pelvic injuries: Tile A (n = 15, 35.7%), B (n = 20, 47.6%), and C (n = 7, 16.6%) of cases. 54.8% (n = 23) underwent surgery, 21.4% (n = 9) needed temporary or definitive external fixation. Significant differences were found between Tile A type and scapula fractures (P = .032), and Tile B with sacral fractures (P = .033) and visceral injuries (P = .049), while there is a tendency without a statistical significal between Tile C and costal fractures. 61.9% (n = 26) needed blood transfusion; 9.5% (n = 4) presented hypovolemic shock. ConclusionsTile A pelvic fractures were associated with scapular fractures, and Tile B with transforaminal fractures of the sacrum and with visceral injuries (lungs, liver and genitourinary). The small number of Tile C prevent us to confirm an association with any pathology, although they are the ones which presnt more hemodynamically instability and thoracic injuries.

Comparative study of 145° onlay curved stem versus 155° inlay straight stem reverse shoulder arthroplasty: clinical and radiographic results with a minimum 2-year follow-up.

Lateralized onlay reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is designed to ensure better clinical functional recovery and lower rate of complications compared with Grammont medialized inlay RSA. The purpose of the present study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes between these 2 different designs. Eighty-five consecutive patients who underwent RSA were retrospectively analyzed. Nine patients were lost to follow-up, 34 received a curved onlay with a 145° neck-shaft angle (Ascend Flex group), and 42 received a long straight inlay stem with a 155° neck-shaft angle (Delta Xtend group). Patients were reviewed at an average follow-up of 46.8±13.2 months (Ascend Flex group) and 36±10.8 months (Delta Xtend group). Clinical outcome measures included active range of motion, strength, visual analog scale, Constant-Murley score, and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score. Radiographic evaluation at the final follow-up was performed to assess scapular notching, stress shielding, acromial or scapular fractures, heterotopic ossification, and radiolucent lines or implant loosening. No differences emerged between the 2 groups in terms of visual analog scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Constant-Murley scores, pain, function, strength, mobility, active forward elevation, active internal rotation, active external rotation at 0° and 90° of abduction, abduction, forward elevation, and external rotation strength (P=n.s.). Statistically superior active abduction was observed in the Delta Xtend group (P=.0017). Scapular notching was observed in 12 shoulders (35.2%) in the Ascend Flex group (a grade 1) and in 10 shoulders (23.8%) in the Delta Xtend group (P=n.s.). No differences emerged between the 2 groups in terms of humeral or glenoid radiolucency (P=n.s.). Higher rate of humeral stress shielding rate was observed in the Ascend flex cohort (P=n.s.). No statistically significant difference emerged between the 145° onlay curved stem vs. the 155° inlay straight stem according to most of the evaluated parameters. Statistically superior active abduction was observed in the 155° group although it did not affect patients' satisfaction.

Factors Associated with Poorer Outcomes from Triceps Motor Branch to Anterior Axillary Nerve Transfer: A Case-Control Study

We sought to identify predictors of failed triceps motor branch transfer to the anterior division of the axillary nerve (AN) for shoulder abduction reconstruction after a brachial plexus injury (BPI). A case-control study of adult AN or brachial plexus patients treated with a triceps motor branch transfer to the anterior division of the AN with a minimum 18 months of follow-up was performed. The failure group (case group) was defined as modified British Medical Research Council muscle scale (mBMRC) postoperative deltoid grade ≤2 and was compared to the successful outcome group (control group), defined as mBMRC postoperative deltoid grade ≥3. Clinical variables, injury mechanism, time from injury to surgery, root avulsion status, electrodiagnostic studies, rotator cuff injuries, scapula fracture, Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand scores, and preoperative triceps strength were analyzed. Subgroup analysis was performed for patients with isolated AN injuries and those with BPI. A total of 69 patients met inclusion/exclusion criteria, of whom 23 regained ≥M3 deltoid muscle strength and 52° ± 69° of shoulder abduction (successful outcome group) and 46 regained ≤M2 deltoid muscle strength and 27° ± 30° of shoulder abduction (failure group). Preoperative triceps weakness (M ≤4) was significantly more common in the failure group (63% vs. 30%, P= 0.032); preoperative triceps muscle fibrillations were significantly more common in the failure group (61% vs. 30%, P= 0.02). Isolated AN injuries presented better preoperative motion and postoperative outcomes results compared to BPI. Use of triceps motor branch associated with fibrillations or weakness resulted in statistically poorer outcomes compared to the use of a normal triceps motor branch in the restoration of anterior AN function after nerve transfer.

Scapular Stress Fracture of the Inferior Angle in an Adolescent Swimmer.

We present the case of a competitive swimmer who was 14 years, 9 months old and had a 4-month history of posterior shoulder pain. She was initially evaluated by her school's trainer and completed a 2-week rehabilitation program, but pain returned with return to swimming. After feeling a "pop" while swimming with an increase in associated shoulder pain, the patient presented for medical evaluation. Plain radiographs were read as unremarkable. A formal physical therapy program resulted in increased pain, and the patient returned to clinic within 2 weeks with pain out of proportion to examination. Magnetic resonance imaging at this time identified a stress fracture along the inferior angle of the scapula, prompting a complete shutdown of activity for 4 weeks with vitamin D and calcium supplementation. A physical therapy regimen was restarted at 6 weeks with complete resolution of symptoms and return to swimming at 3 months. This case report is important because it highlights a sports-related stress fracture of the inferior angle of the scapula, a finding not currently present in the literature, in a swimmer, a sport not yet associated with scapular stress fractures. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(4):e249-e252.].

Wrestler's Shoulder

History: 14 year old male with left shoulder pain after injury during wrestling meet. He was participating in wrestling meet 2 days prior when he was thrown to the mat. He landed on his left elbow and felt immediate pain in his shoulder, was unable to move the shoulder due to pain. He has decreased range of motion and weakness with shoulder movement, pain with moving, lifting, and sleeping. Denies any radiating pain, numbness/tingling or history of prior shoulder injuries. Physical Examination: No obvious deformity, no bony tenderness to palpation. Active ROM is forward flexion to 140 degrees with pain, abduction to 120 degrees with pain, external rotation with elbow at side to 20 degrees with pain, internal rotation to L3 with pain. Passive ROM full in all directions. The belly-press test, lift-off tests are abnormal, and the bear hug test shows weakness. Strength 4/5 of the infraspinatus, 4/5 of supraspinatus with pain. Neer/Hawkins, Obrien's signs negative. Neurovascularly intact in the bilateral upper extremities. Differential Diagnosis: Humeral, glenoid or scapular fracture, Rotator cuff tear, AC joint dislocation Final/Working Diagnosis: Fracture to base of coracoid process, Avulsion fracture of lesser tuberosity of humerus Tests and Results: Xray L shoulder: Humeral head high-riding. Widening of the left coracoid on axillary view. Widening of the AC joint. Humeral physes open, normal and symmetric compared to contralateral shoulder. MRI L shoulder: Minimally displaced fracture through base of the coracoid process, medially-displaced, lesser tuberosity physeal fracture. Hemarthrosis of the glenohumeral joint. Edema within subscapularis muscle belly. No rotator cuff full-thickness tears. Treatment and Outcomes: Athlete was referred to an Orthopaedic surgeon and underwent lesser tuberosity avulsion repair, coracoid ORIF, and closed treatment of AC joint instability. Patient immobilized in a sling for 6 weeks post-operatively. Passive ROM was initiated at 2 weeks post-operatively. Active ROM was allowed at 6 weeks progressing to full active elevation. Athlete was allowed to begin weight-lifting as tolerated, running and non-contact practice at 8 weeks. Post-operative course was uncomplicated and the athlete was cleared for full return at 12 weeks post-operatively.

Open Reduction and Plating of Scapula and Acromion Fracture with Modified Judet Approach

Open Reduction and Plating of Scapula and Acromion Fracture with Modified Judet Approach

Comparative analysis of conventional X-ray chest Vs. NCCT chest in patients of blunt trauma chest: An observational study

Background: Chest X-Ray (CXR) is routinely used as the primary diagnostic technique in chest trauma but some possibly life-threatening injuries are repeatedly missed on CXR. Non contrast computed tomography (NCCT) scan is a superior diagnostic device in blunt trauma chest. Aim: To compare efficacy of the x-ray versus NCCT chest in diagnosis of blunt trauma chest. Methodology: The present cross sectional study was performed in the admitted patients in causality in Surgery Department of Hind Medical College, Safedabad, Barabanki (U.P). The patients who were treated in level 1 trauma centre for blunt chest trauma and received both Chest X-ray and CT chest scan during study period 2020 - 2021. Identification of the patients was done from the hospital’s registry. Results: while 39 (24.38%) patients were undetected on chest X-ray chest. However, the fractures could not be detected in only 2 (1.25%) patients on NCCT scan chest. Statistically significant variance was found in circumstances of sternum fracture, rib fracture, scapula fracture, lung contusion and pneumothorax. The sensitivity of CXR for sternum fracture, rib fracture, lung contusion and pneumothorax were 100.00% and other injuries like clavicle fracture, scapula fracture, diaphragmatic rupture, and hemothorax were 88.89%, 87.50%, 66.67% and 90.91%%, respectively.

Circumflex arterial sulcus of the scapula (sulcus arteriae circumflexae scapulae): its anatomy and clinical relevance.

The circumflex scapular artery (CSA) has been described in detail in the literature, but the groove, i.e., the circumflex sulcus (CFS), formed by the artery on the lateral pillar of the scapula has been completely neglected. The aim of the present study was to describe the variability and anatomy of the CFS. The study was based on the examination of 103 pairs of dry bone specimens of adult scapulae, i.e., 206 specimens, including 92 (46 pairs) male and 114 (57 pairs) female specimens. In the first step, quantitative criteria were defined for assessment of the CFS presence and type. Subsequently, statistical analysis of the obtained data was performed. The study revealed considerable variability of the arterial groove, which was well developed in 33% (type A), shallow in 40% (type B), and absent in 27% (type C) of cases. The mean distance between CFS and the infraglenoid tubercle was 3.3cm CI0.95 (3.1-3.3), which corresponds to the proximal third of the lateral border of the scapula. The study has confirmed variability of the arterial groove (CFS) and its localization in relation to the inferior glenoid rim. The findings are clinically important, particularly in relation to the Judet approach to scapular fractures (localization of the CSA course).

Operative treatment of complex intra-articular scapular fractures: long-term functional outcomes in a single-center study.

Scapula fractures occur in the setting of high-energy trauma. Operative treatment of complex intra-articular scapular fractures can result in adequate surgical and functional outcomes. Twenty-seven patients with complex, displaced intra-articular scapular fractures with or without involvement of the scapular body, were treated operatively in a single trauma center between 2010 and 2021. Associated injuries such as ipsilateral upper limb fractures and nerve injuries were identified in the majority of the patients. Fixation with anatomical medial and lateral border precontoured plates was utilized following posterior modified Judet approach or/and anterior deltopectoral approach. Functional outcome was assessed using the Oxford Shoulder Score and detailed shoulder range of motion and return to work/activities data were obtained. At a mean follow-up of 69 months (range 4-135 months), individual functional outcomes for 25 of the 27 patients revealed a mean Oxford Shoulder Score of 33 (69%), mean active flexion of 120 degrees, active abduction of 110 degrees, mean active external rotation of 35 degrees and mean internal rotation to the level of T5. All patients were pain-free at the latest follow-up, and 23 of 25 had returned to their preinjury occupation and activities. Operative treatment for these complex injuries is a viable option at centers equipped to handle critically ill patients and can result in satisfactory range of motion and functional score measurements along with a relatively low number of complications.

A new surgical approach for the treatment of scapular glenoid fractures- Axillary approach: A single center case series

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of the scapular glenoid fractures by a new surgical approach (Axillary approach) through follow-up studies. MethodWe retrospectively analyzed the prospectively collected data from 11cases of glenoid fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation through a Axillary approach approach between July 2019 and October 2020. All patients were required to conform to regular follow up postoperatively. X-ray film and CT scan was applied to all cases. The Constant score system, the UCLA score system and DASH score system were used to evaluate functional results. ResultsAll patients achieved bone union. At the final follow-up, the mean Constant score was 92.5 ± 3.0 (range 85–97) points and the mean UCLA score was 33.5 ± 1.6 (range 31–36) points. According to the UCLA score system, two patients achieved excellent results and one patients had good results. The mean DASH scores were 7.7 ± 3.2 (range 4–12). Compared with the preoperative functional score, it was significantly improved (P < 0.01). ConclusionsThe axillary approach as a new method for scapular glenoid fractures (especially the fracture of the lower half of the scapular glenoid) has achieved desired results, and it can provide new options for clinical treatment. Level of evidenceLevel III; Development or Validation of Outcome Instrument© 2018 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. All rights reserved.

Acromioclavicular dislocation associated with scapular fractures - pathoanatomy of the injury.

No detailed study dealing with an injury to the AC joint in combination with scapular fractures has been published to date. The aim of this study is to describe pathoanatomy of these injuries. In a series of 519 scapular fractures in adult patients from the period of 20022020 we identified a total of 20 (3.9%) cases associated with AC dislocation. The group comprised 17 men and 3 women with the mean age of 49 years (range, 2178). Radiographs of the shoulder joint followed by CT examination, including 3D reconstructions, were performed in all patients. This documentation allowed assessment of the scapular fracture pattern and type of injury to the AC joint. AC dislocation was associated with a simple scapular fracture in 15 cases (7 fractures of the coracoid base, 4 fractures of the acromion or the lateral spine, 2 fractures of the scapular body, 1 fracture of the superior and 1 fracture of the inferior glenoid). In 5 cases AC dislocation accompanied multiple or complex scapular fractures (once a combination of a coracoid fracture and a fracture of the lateral scapular spine, once a combination of a fracture of the superior glenoid and of the acromion, 2 cases of a complex intraarticular fracture and 1 case of scapulothoracic dissociation). AC dislocation is relatively infrequent injury accompanying scapular fractures. It is most commonly associated with fractures of coracoid, acromion/lateral spine or superior glenoid. No case of AC dislocation was recorded in a fracture of the scapular neck.

Incidence, radiographic predictors, and clinical outcome of acromial stress reaction and acromial fractures in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

Acromial and scapular spine fractures (ASFs) are known complications following implantation of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). The entity of acromial stress reaction (ASR) without fracture has recently been described. The purpose of this study was to analyze the incidence, radiographic predictors, treatment options, healing rates, and clinical outcomes of ASF and ASR compared with a control group. A total of 854 primary RTSAs were implanted between 2005 and 2018 in a single shoulder unit of a tertiary referral hospital and retrospectively reviewed for the incidence of ASF and ASR. ASR was defined as pain at the acromion or scapular spine after fracture exclusion on computed tomography scans. The ASF group was matched to a control group. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were analyzed for radiographic predictors of ASF or ASR. The impact of ASF and ASR, operative vs. nonoperative treatment, and fracture union on clinical outcomes (Constant-Murley score [CS], Subjective Shoulder Value [SSV], and range of motion) with a minimum follow-up period of 2 years was analyzed. A total of 46 ASFs (5.4%) in 44 patients and 44 ASRs (5.2%) in 43 patients were detected at a mean of 16±24 months and 20±23 months postoperatively, respectively. Predictive radiographic factors were an increased critical shoulder angle and lateralization shoulder angle. The overall union rate was 55% (22 of 40) but was significantly higher following operative treatment (9 of 11, 82%) compared with nonoperative treatment (13 of 29, 45%). Patients with ASF or ASR demonstrated inferior clinical outcomes (CS, 44±21 and 48±18; SSV, 52%±25% and 57%±27%) compared with the control group (CS, 66±14; SSV, 82%±22%) independent of bony union or treatment at a mean of 59±33 months (ASF) and 61±38 months (ASR). ASF and ASR are frequent complications following RTSA implantation with similar poor clinical outcome measures. The healing rate was shown to be much higher with a surgical approach. Nevertheless, fracture consolidation does not result in better clinical outcomes compared with nonunion.

A comparative analysis of titanium anatomic plate and titanium reconstructive plate for treatment of extra-articular fractures of the scapula (Miller types IIb, IIc, and IV).

Because of the irregular shape of the scapula and the different types of fractures, a standard internal fixation device is lacking in clinical practice, even though there are many options available. This study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of titanium anatomic and reconstructive plates for extra-articular fractures of the scapula (Miller types IIb, IIc, and IV). A retrospective study of 41 patients who underwent treatment for extra-articular fractures of the scapula between March 2017 and March 2020 was conducted. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the fixation device: titanium anatomic plate group (20 patients) and titanium reconstructive plate group (21 patients). After follow-up for 12-18 months, the general characteristics, perioperative characteristics, postoperative follow-up findings, and imaging data of the 2 groups were compared. The surgical procedures were uneventful in both groups. The anatomic plate group significantly outperformed the reconstructive plate group with respect to surgical duration and intraoperative blood loss (P<.001). At 3-month postoperative follow-up, the Constant-Murley score (P=.026), shoulder flexion range of motion, and shoulder abduction range of motion in the anatomic plate group were all significantly better than those in the reconstructive plate group (P<.001). The postoperative Western Ontario Shoulder Instability scores of the 2 groups were similar. Imaging showed functional recovery and stable and reliable fixation in both groups. Time to bone union was similar in both groups (9.10±1.25 weeks in anatomic plate group and 9.24±1.41 weeks in reconstructive plate group, P=.742). No complications occurred in any patient, such as fixation failure, instability, or bone nonunion. Surgeons should favorably consider titanium anatomic plates for the treatment of extra-articular scapular fractures owing to their clear efficacy associated with a shorter surgical time, less intraoperative blood loss, better fixation, and rapid short-term functional recovery.

Treatment and outcome in combined scapula and rib fractures

Abstract Objective The primary aim was to describe the population characteristics of patients with combined scapula and rib fractures and outcomes associated with different treatment strategies. Secondarily, a systematic literature review was conducted to provide an overview of the available literature on this population. Methods All adult (≥18 years) patients with concurrent ipsilateral scapula and rib fractures admitted to the study hospital between 1st January 2010 and 31st June 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Secondarily, the Pubmed, EMBASE and CENRTAL databases were searched to identify studies reporting on this patient population. Results A total of 243 patients were admitted with concurrent ipsilateral rib and scapula fractures. 160 patients (72%) were treated conservatively, 63 patients (28%) operatively. Among operatively treated patients, 32 (51%) underwent rib fixation (RF) only, 24 (38%) underwent scapula fixation (SF) only and 7 patients (11%) underwent combined fixation of scapula and ribs (SRF). In general, more severely injured patients were treated with more extensive surgery. RF patients had a median hospital length of stay of 16 days, the SF patients 11 days and SRF patients 18 days. There were no significant differences in complications (pneumonia, recurrent pneumothorax, and revision surgery) between groups. The systematic review included 9 studies of which none reported on outcomes or treatment strategy for this combined injury. Conclusion Injury severity resulted in different treatment modalities. As a result different patient characteristics between treatment groups were observed, which makes direct comparison between treatment modalities impossible. All treatment modalities seem feasible, however the additional value of both rib and scapula fixation has yet to be proven in large multicentre studies.

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for clavicle shaft fractures

Abstract Objective Whereas open reduction and internal fixation remains the surgical standard for displaced clavicle shaft fractures, the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique has been introduced for multifragmentary, non-antomically reducible fractures, and unstable fractures with significant soft tissue injuries. Its advantages lie in the preservation of the vascular supply of the fracture zone and the preservation of the supraclavicular nerve. The aim of this study was to prove feasibility and share our experiences with this technique. Methods In this single center retrospective case series, we analyzed all patients that underwent MIPO for displaced clavicular shaft fractures from 2001–2021. Patient history, fracture morphology and perioperative data were documented. Outcomes were assessed based on clinical and radiographic follow-up reports. Results In total, 1128 clavicle osteosyntheses were performed, of which 908 (80.5%) were treated with a plate and 220 (19.5%) with titanium elastic nail (TEN). Of the 908 plate osteosyntheses, 43 (4.7%) were performed with the MIPO approach. Mean age was 44 ± 15 years, 83.3% were males and 79.1% were sports injuries. The fractures were categorized as AO/OTA type C injuries (n=26) in most patients, followed by A (n=9) and B (n=8). Two open (Gustilo I) and 41 closed fractures were noted (Tscherne 0=26; I=13, II=2). In seven patients (16.7%), the clavicle fractures were part of a severe polytrauma. Concomitant serial rib fractures and scapular fractures were found in 19 (45.2%) and 10 patients (23.8%), respectively. Length of surgery was 63 ± 28 min, and hospitalization was 4 ± 3 days (excl. polytraumas). 27 of the 43 fractures (62.8%) were clinically and radiographically followed up in our outpatient clinic, of which 26 (96.3%) healed with noticeable callus formation. In one case, a pseudoarthrosis was found two years after fracture treatment. Otherwise, all patients followed a remarkable postoperative course, were pain-free and able to return to work, most within five weeks. Conclusion In this retrospective analysis, 96.3% of the clavicle shaft fractures treated with MIPO healed in a timely manner. The MIPO technique is feasible and plausibly advantageous for distinct fracture and injury patterns (i.e. multifragmentary fractures or unstable fractures with soft tissue injuries). Future comparative studies are warranted to clarify our observations.