An Unusual Pattern of Scapular Avulsion Fracture in the Spine: A Case Study

TL;DR

This case study presents a rare acromion fracture in a young man and shows that non-surgical treatment with rehabilitation can be effective.

Contribution

The paper contributes a case report on the conservative management of an isolated displaced acromion fracture.

Findings

Conservative treatment with regular follow-ups showed no further displacement of the fracture.

Gradual rehabilitation exercises based on healing progress led to positive outcomes.

The case suggests conservative care may be preferred over surgery for isolated acromion fractures.

Abstract

Acromion fractures, particularly isolated cases, are uncommon but significant in shoulder injuries. There is no universally accepted treatment protocol, but the classification of the fracture helps to guide clinical decisions. We present a case report aiming to contribute to the understanding of treatment options for acromion fractures. A 22-year-old male sustained a left shoulder injury during a wrestling match, resulting in a type 2 acromion fracture. Conservative treatment was initiated with regular follow-ups. Serial imaging showed no further displacement. Gradual rehabilitation exercises were introduced based on healing progress. The rarity of isolated acromion fractures complicates their management. Conservative management, coupled with rehabilitation exercises, yielded positive outcomes in our case, suggesting its efficacy as a primary treatment option for isolated displaced acromion fractures. Further research is needed to establish standardized protocols for managing such fractures, but until then, conservative care remains a viable approach, potentially preferred over surgical intervention.

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