To describe shoulder anatomy and common patterns of fractures in patients with acute shoulder trauma. To identify radiologic findings that are relevant for surgical decision making in patients with traumatic shoulder injuries.

The shoulder consists of three bones (clavicle, scapula, and proximal humerus) and four articulations (glenohumeral, acromioclavicular, sternoclavicular and scapulo-thoracic) (Fig.1). Traumatic shoulder injuries include fractures of the proximal humerus, dislocations and fracture-dislocations of the glenohumeral joint, and fractures involving the glenoid fossa and scapular neck. Radiologic evaluation of acute shoulder trauma is commonly performed by the emergency radiologist. IMAGING Radiographic views. The recommended views are the trauma series of radiographs, that is, true anteroposterior radiographs in internal and external rotation and an axillary lateral view...

SCAPULAR FRACTURES Scapular fractures are rare and most often occur in the setting of high-energy chest trauma. In clinical practice, fractures of the scapula are generally divided into: Extraarticular fractures of the scapular body, acromion, or coracoid process, that are treated nonsurgically. Fractures of the glenoid neck or articular surface, that require surgical repair. Fractures interesting the coracoid, the scapular neck or body associated with fractures of the clavicle determine the clinical picture called "floating shoulder", a complete instability of the shoulder girdle that requires...

An injury description that contains all the elements necessary for helping the orthopedic understand the severity of injury is very important to predict outcomes and plan management in patients with acute shoulder trauma

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