A new surgical approach for the treatment of scapular glenoid fractures- Axillary approach: A single center case series

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of the scapular glenoid fractures by a new surgical approach (Axillary approach) through follow-up studies. METHOD: We retrospectively analyzed the prospectively collected data from 11cases of glenoid fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation through a Axillary approach approach between July 2019 and October 2020. All patients were required to conform to regular follow up postoperatively. X-ray film and CT scan was applied to all cases. The Constant score system, the UCLA score system and DASH score system were used to evaluate functional results. RESULTS: All patients achieved bone union. At the final follow-up, the mean Constant score was 92.5 ± 3.0 (range 85–97) points and the mean UCLA score was 33.5 ± 1.6 (range 31–36) points. According to the UCLA score system, two patients achieved excellent results and one patients had good results. The mean DASH scores were 7.7 ± 3.2 (range 4–12). Compared with the preoperative functional score, it was significantly improved (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The axillary approach as a new method for scapular glenoid fractures (especially the fracture of the lower half of the scapular glenoid) has achieved desired results, and it can provide new options for clinical treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III; Development or Validation of Outcome Instrument© 2018 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. All rights reserved.