A Scapular Fracture in Yangchuanosaurus hepingensis (Dinosauria:
Theropoda)
Xing Li-da1*, Dong Hui2, Peng
Guang-zhao3, Shu Chun-kang3, Hu Xiao-dong3,
Jiang Hua4
1, Institute of Geology, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Beijing,
100037, P.R. China
2, Department of Pathology, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, Sichuan Province,
646000, P.R. China
3, Zigong Dinosaur Museum, Zigong, Sichuan Province, 643013, P.R. China
4, Department of Traumatic Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital,
Sichuan Medical Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610073, P.R. China
Abstract: A scapula with healed wound of Yangchuanosaurus (Sinraptor)
hepingensis ZDM 0024 from Zigong Dinosaur Museum of China is described.
This is the first detailed description on theropod pathology in China. The
discontinuous cortical bones, angular deformity and bony callus suggest an
external force-caused wound healing in this bone, rather than a pathological
fracture. Mamenchisaurus hochuanensis with tail club among the
contemporary fauna is probably the candidate for the assault. This presents an
attractive explanation to the bone fracture of Yangchuanosaurus hepingensis.
Key words: Paleopathology, Scapular Fracture, Yangchuanosaurus,
Mamenchisaurus, Shangshaximiao Formation, Upper Jurassic