Coracoid Process Fracture in a High School Football Player

Abstract: We presented a unique case of a high school athlete who suffered from a coracoid process fracture following a collision with an opposing player. This fracture is commonly misdiagnosed as a clavicular fracture or AC joint sprain. Initial radiographic examination may fail to identify the fracture site. Understanding the clinical features of this injury is an important prerequisite to its overall management. Any misdiagnosis or alteration from the appropriate course of treatment can inhibit return to play and may be avoided by using indicated diagnostic evaluation tools. Scapular fractures occur infrequently, as they only account for 1 % of all fractures and fewer than 5 % of shoulder girdle injuries (Cottalorda, Allard, Dutour, & Chavrier, 1996). In addition, coracoid process fractures occur significantly less, accounting for only 3 to 13 % of all scapular fractures with the most common mechanism of injury for coracoid process fractures being a direct blow or a forceful muscular contraction causing an avulsion fracture (Cottalorda et al., 1996; Protass, Stampfli, & Osmer, 1974). Coracoid process fractures are frequently missed due to inadequate radiographic screening and the occult nature of this injury. It is therefor