FRACTURE OF THE SHOULDER ACETOPHOSPHORE
A fracture of the shoulder socket (glenoid fracture) is less common than a fracture of the humeral head and usually occurs after a greater force is applied.
These can be sports accidents while horseback riding or kitesurfing. Glenoid fractures can also occur after mountain biking or skiing accidents, which often have a direct impact on shoulder function.
However, with the help of modern trauma surgery procedures, glenoid fractures can be treated well, so that usually only a slight restriction of movement remains.
Fractures of the glenoid fossa can be roughly divided into two fracture patterns.
The two most common fracture patterns are:
Glenoid rim fractures:
Glenoid rim fractures typically occur during shoulder dislocation. When the ball of the humeral head moves beyond the rim of the socket, it can press against the rim of the glenoid socket, causing the bony rim of the socket to break away.
This can affect the stability of the shoulder socket. A glenoid fracture is diagnosed using an X-ray; in more complex fractures, computed tomography (CT) is also used.
In some cases, conservative treatment is sufficient. Especially in older patients and non-displaced fractures, there is a high potential for self-healing.
For younger patients, treatment with keyhole surgery is the main option.
The treatment of a glenoid rim fracture focuses on restoring the normal contour of the glenoid socket to prevent recurrent instability (repeated dislocations) of the shoulder joint.
Fractures in the area of the glenoid fossa:
The glenoid fossa is the central portion of the shoulder socket. These fractures are less common and are not as frequently associated with shoulder dislocation.
If the joint position is centric, non-surgical treatment may be sufficient.
However, in cases of severe displacement of the fracture fragments, surgical re-alignment is recommended. This procedure is particularly beneficial for active young and middle-aged people, as it also reduces the risk of later osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint.
FAQ on glenoid fractures
What are the chances of recovery after a shoulder socket fracture?
If the fracture fragments are returned to their original position, or if they are surgically realigned and fixed, the outlook for glenoid fractures is very good. Usually, only a slight restriction of movement remains. The more complex the damage to the joint, the higher the risk of osteoarthritis. Damage to the articular cartilage and soft tissue plays a particularly important role. A fracture of the glenoid socket increases the risk of osteoarthritis.
What influence do so-called Bankart fractures have on the risk of osteoarthritis?
So-called Bankart fractures are fractures at the edge of the shoulder socket. They are often observed after a shoulder dislocation and can lead to shoulder instability. This means that the shoulder dislocates repeatedly later on. Comminuted fractures that heal in a misaligned position are more likely to lead to shoulder stiffness. Both of these problems have the common feature that they can sometimes lead to severe shoulder dysfunction in patients, necessitating surgical treatment.
PROF. DR. MED BEN OCKERT
Specialist in orthopedics and accident surgery, sports medicine.
