Fracture Clavicle

A broken collarbone is a common injury, particularly in children and young adults. Your collarbone connects the upper part of your breastbone to your shoulder blade.

The clavicle (collarbone) extends between the manubrium of the sternum and the acromion of the scapula. It is classed as a long bone, and can be palpated along its length. In thin individuals, it is visible under the skin. It is the only long bone in body which lies horizontally.

The clavicle has three main functions:

Attaches the upper limb to the trunk as part of the ‘shoulder girdle’.

Protects the underlying neurovascular structures supplying the upper limb.

Transmits force from the upper limb to the axial skeleton.

Causes of Fracture Clavicle

The clavicle fracture accounts for 2 – 4 % of all fractures in adults. This fracture is commonly seen in males under 30 years.

Commonly due to fall on outstretched hand.
Fall from bicycle.
Road Traffic Collision.
Sports Injury.

Presentation:

Usually after a fall, sports injury.
Pain and swelling around the collar bone. Examination of skin overlying the collar bone. Check for any nerve or vascular damage.

Diagnosis:

A plain X-ray is used to diagnose the fracture. Sometimes a CT scan may be ordered to assess the fracture pattern and any significant fragments present.

Treatment:

This depends on patient factors and the fracture, the vastvmajority of patients can be treated without surgery.

Non Operative Treatment

Immobilization. A sling is recommend keeping the arm immobilized for about 2 to 3 weeks, but the amount of time can vary on the fracture type, age of the patient, and other medical conditions.
Pain control. Regular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including ibuprofen, and/or other pain medications during the healing process.
Range-of-motion exercises. Gentle range-of-motion exercises may begin 7 to 10 days after injury.
Physical therapy. Physical therapy can start 3 – 4 weeks after the injury occurs.