Coracoid process fractures are rare. They are often overlooked on frontal radiographs of the shoulder because they are frequently nondisplaced and difficult to visualize. The axillary radiograph is best for their detection. These fractures are usually associated with direct trauma and are associated with other fractures in the shoulder.

A	AP radiograph of the left shoulder. In addition to the anterior dislocation of the humerus, there is irregularity of the coracoid process.
B	Axillary radiograph of the left shoulder. This demonstrates the anterior dislocation as well as better depicts the coracoid fracture.
C	Grashey radiograph of the left shoulder. This shows the fractured portion of the coracoid process as well as the anterior dislocation of the humeral head.

Links to online textbooks:

• Wheeless' Orthopedics: discussion of scapular fractures

Links to online cases:

• Emedicine.com

References:

• Ogawa K, Yoshida A: Fracture of the superior border of the scapula Int Orthop. 1997;21(6):371-3.           [See related articles]
• Goss TP: Fractures of the coracoid process J Bone Joint Surg Br. 1997 Jul;79(4):694.           [See related articles]