Surgical management of scapular fractures via the Judet approach: A report of 3 cases from the orthopedic-traumatology department of Donka University Hospital, Conakry

Abstract

Introduction: Scapular fractures are rare injuries that typically result from high-energy trauma. While most are managed non-surgically with favorable outcomes, surgical intervention is indicated in cases of displaced fractures, particularly those involving the articular surface. The Judet dorsal approach is widely recognized for providing excellent exposure for complex scapular body and glenoid fractures. Objective: This case study aims to describe the surgical management of three cases of complex scapular fractures using the Judet approach and to evaluate functional outcomes at six months follow-up. Clinical Observations: We report three cases involving male patients aged 21, 27, and 31 years who sustained closed shoulder trauma following road traffic accidents (motorbike collisions). Initial clinical evaluations revealed that all patients were conscious, hemodynamically stable, and showed no signs of neurovascular compromise or skin breach. Radiological investigations, including anteroposterior shoulder and lateral chest radiographs, along with computed tomography (CT) scans with 3D reconstructions, enabled precise anatomopathological descriptions of the lesions. The fractures were classified according to the Ideberg classification as types II, IV, and Vc. The third patient also presented with an associated ipsilateral clavicle fracture.