Scapular Spine Stress Fracture as a Complication of Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

We report a case of a stress fracture of the scapular spine which developed as a late complication of a reverse shoulder arthroplasty. After initially doing well after surgery, our patient developed pain and decreased shoulder function. A nondisplaced scapular spine fracture was noted on radiographs. Because reverse shoulder arthroplasty is a relatively new procedure in this country, radiologists may be unfamiliar with its potential complications. Stress or insufficiency fractures of the scapular spine and acromion are a potential complication of reverse shoulder arthroplasty, due to increased functional demands of the deltoid muscle, which is often combined with deficiency of acromial bone due to rotator cuff arthropathy and osteopenia.