Abstract
Because scapula fractures vary in their location, displacement, and involvement of the glenohumeral joint and scapular body, a variety of surgical approaches have been used to address different fracture patterns. The classic Judet approach provides a wide exposure of the posterior scapula. It is described here along with several modifications that have been proposed to further enhance the exposure of the glenohumeral joint or to limit the morbidity of the approach. Some fractures may be amenable to a minimally invasive approach through one or more smaller posterior incisions, and fractures of the coracoid or anterior glenoid are best treated through an anterior deltopectoral approach. Depending on the fracture and selected approach, reduction techniques include use of Schanz pins, external fixators, modified pointed-reduction clamps, towel clamps, shoulder hooks, and kugelspitzen (ball-spikes). Fixation can be attained with 2.7-mm or 2.4-mm plates along the periphery of the scapula where the bone is thickest. Reduction and fixation allow early motion to optimize recovery. © The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.