Extra-articular scapula neck and body fractures [Extraartikuläre Skapula- und Skapulafortsatzfrakturen]

Extra-articular scapula fractures are rare injuries, which are often associated in high-energy trauma or in multiple injured cases. In the past extra-articular scapula fractures were treated conservatively and randomized treatment studies had been rare for those cases. However, biomechanical studies of the scapula, newly designed anatomical implants as well as minimal invasive approaches to the scapula have improved the operative treatment in those cases. However, in principle only dislocated and instable extra-articular scapula fractures should be addressed operatively. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.