Objective To investigate surgical methods and clinical effects of the reconstruction plates in the treatment of unstable scapular fractures with shift. Methods Seventeen cases of unstable scapular fractures were followed from August 2005 to August 2009, all patients were assessed by three-dimensional CT reconstruction to determine the fracture patterns, all cases with significant displacement were treated by reconstruction plate fixation, and early postoperative functional exercise. Results Sixteen cases were followed up for (15.45±1.27) months (range 12-20 months), fractures healed completely, all cases were estimated by Rowe shoulder function standard, efficient was 87.5%. Conclusions The use of reconstruction plate have an exact effect on the treatment of unstable scapular fractures with shift, it contributes to scapular fracture's anatomic reduction, early rehabilitation, reduces complications, and provides satisfactory outcome．