Description

Goss classified scapular fractures involving the glenoid cavity, modifying the scheme described by Ideberg. These fractures develop when the head of the humerus is driven into the glenoid cavity. The author is from the University of Massachusetts Medical Center.


 

Description of Fracture

Type

none

0

glenoid rim, anterior

Ia

glenoid rim, posterior

Ib

from glenoid fossa vertically to lateral border of the body, generating an inferior fragment

II

from glenoid fossa horizontally to the superior border, generating a superior fragment

III

from glenoid fossa horizontally to the medial border, splitting the scapula

IV

Types II and IV

Va

Types III and IV

Vb

Types II, III and IV

Vc

severely comminuted

VI

 

Any fracture of the glenoid cavity may be associated with neurovascular damage (page 300). The risk is increased if:

(1) the patient has a fracture Type III, Vb. Vc or VI

(2) there is associated disruption of the clavicle, acromion or acromioclavicular joint

 


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