Rare case of the fracture of the lateral border of the scapula associated with lesion of the brachial plexus: a case report

Abstract

Scapular fractures are considered a very unusual injury, among studies in adults they account for 1-3% of all fractures, and 5% of fractures involving the shoulder, because the anatomic location and the soft tissues protect the scapula. Consequently, they are usually caused by high-energy vesicular trauma or by falling from a height. Conservative treatment commonly produces good or excellent results. We report a very rare case of a fracture of the lateral border of the scapula associated with lesion of the brachial plexus. A 38-year-old man injured his left shoulder in a traffic accident. In his physical examination, there was a deficit partial nervous of the brachial plexus. The X-ray examination revealed a displaced fracture of the lateral border of the scapula. A computed tomography scan with 3D reconstruction confirmed the diagnosis. Electromyographic examination two weeks after the injury showed a compression of the brachial plexus. The fracture was treated  conservatively. By 4 months after the injury there was further improvement in both sensory and motor function, and by 8 months there was sensation in the autonomous zones of both median and ulnar nerves and good return of muscle power.

Pan African Medical Journal 2016; 23