Predictors of functional outcome after extra-articular scapular fracture stabilization with Brodsky approach

PMCID: PMC12178972

PMID: 40536675

DOI: 10.1007/s00590-025-04355-9

Journal: European journal of orthopaedic surgery & traumatology : orthopedie traumatologie

Publication Date: 2025-6-19

Authors: Mejia Bustamante A, Arias Perez RD, Ramirez Carmona LX, Calle Diaz S

Key Points

• Brodsky posterior approach yields consistently excellent long-term outcomes for extra-articular scapular fractures
• 100% fracture union rate with no reoperations or complications
• Preoperative contralateral shoulder function is the most reliable predictor of postoperative recovery potential

Summary

This retrospective cohort study investigated long-term functional outcomes of displaced extra-articular scapular fractures treated surgically using the Brodsky posterior approach. The research focused on evaluating functional recovery and exploring potential radiographic predictors of postoperative shoulder function through a comprehensive 48-month follow-up assessment.

The study of 16 patients demonstrated excellent surgical outcomes, with all patients achieving full fracture union without complications. While statistically significant differences were observed between operated and contralateral shoulders (median Constant scores of 94 vs. 96), the minimal clinically important difference was not exceeded. Notably, the contralateral shoulder's preoperative Constant score emerged as the most reliable predictor of postoperative functional recovery, suggesting that baseline shoulder function is a critical determinant of surgical outcomes.