Clavicle Fractures

Fractures are usually caused by injuries which can include falls or sport injuries. You will have pain in the shoulder with a Clavicle fracture.

A doctor can diagnose it by a clinical examination and it can usually be confirmed on X-ray. With an Open fracture the bone will protrude from the shoulder. Closed fracture is usually diagnosed with x-rays.

Treatment may vary, depending on the type of fracture. If you have a clavicle fracture that is not displaced meaning that the bones align even with the fracture – you may be treated conservatively in a sling. The sling will be worn for 6 weeks where after an x-ray will be taken to see if acceptable bone formation and healing has taken place. If you have a displaced fracture, in other words if the bones are not aligning properly, you will require surgery to align and keep the bones aligned for healing.

Under general anaesthesia, and Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) is done. An incision is made and a plate and screws are fixated to align the Clavicle and keep them in place.

These are fortunately rare, but as with all surgery, may occur. These include infection, pain associated to the Plate and screws and Mal-union or Non-Union of the bones.

These problems, although rare and unwanted, can usually be treated.