Abstract

Fractures of the scapula are rare injuries representing about 1 of all skeletal injuries and are usually associated with high-speed vehicular trauma. Several excellent studies have documented high morbidity and mortality rates accompanying fractures of the scapula. Although these fractures are associated with high morbidity and mortality they are frequently overlooked because of the severity of associated injuries. Less violent trauma and different mechanisms of injury can also produce scapular fractures, as reported by Heyse-Moore and Stoker in a review of avulsion fractures of the scapula. There is a paucity of literature on these fractures in athletes, although occasional cases are reported. These cases are usually stress fractures or avulsion injuries. The purpose of this paper is to review five scapular fractures causes by direct trauma in four professional football players between 1982 and 1988. We also present the treatment, response to treatment, and follow-up functional status of each player subsequent to healing. Verf.-Referat