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

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3D reconstruction of Yangchuanosaurus hepingensis and Mamenchisaurus hochuanensis, the anterior body of Y. hepingensis is within the attacking area of the tailclub of M. hochuanensis.  Scale bar = 2 m.