Clavicle Fracture Surgery

The clavicle, also known as the collarbone, is an important part of the skeletal system. This bone, located on the top of the chest, lies between the scapula (shoulder bone) and sternum (breastbone). Unlike other bones in the body, the collarbone is only covered by skin and is clearly visible. An injury caused due to a fall, a blow on the shoulder or collarbone can result in clavicle fracture. Clavicle bone fracture is a common sports injury. Suffering from a bone fracture can be extremely distressing as it not only hampers the daily routine but is also quite a painful experience. In case the nature of the injury is severe, the doctor may opt for clavicle fracture surgery.

Clavicle Fracture Indications

Clavicle fracture is one of the different types of bone fractures that may be caused due to a trauma or fall. If any of the following indications are observed, then the doctor may advise the patient to undergo clavicle fracture surgery.

• One of the most common indications that the collarbone has broken is experiencing clavicle pain, which can be quite excruciating. The pain may be triggered even due to a slight movement.
• Another sign of a broken clavicle is swelling in the affected region. The area may appear to be soft to touch.
• Bruises may also be seen on the surface as a result of ruptured blood vessels. The skin may also feel warm from within.

Clavicle Fracture Treatment

Depending on the severity and nature of the injury, treatment can be either surgical or non surgical. Many a time, this injury may be treated with the help of a sling, where the movement of the hand will be restricted till it heals completely. Surgery is unusual and is opted only when the skin is torn or the bone has been completely dislocated from its joint. Painkillers may be prescribed to relieve collarbone pain. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to ward off any kind of infection. In case the injury is severe, then surgery is performed.

Before the surgery, the orthopedic may conduct a series of diagnostic tests like an X-ray to check if any of the nerves have been ruptured. A CT scan may also be required for closer examination of the broken bone. Other tests may include a physical exam and blood tests before the surgery. For the broken collarbone treatment through surgical methods, the patient is made to sit, like in a beach chair. Local anesthesia is administered so that the person does not experience pain during the procedure. Then with the help of a scalpel, the injured region is opened and the wound is cleaned. A guide pin is drilled on both the broken ends of the clavicle to secure them. In order to fix the fractured bone back in place, a cannulated screw and washer is attached to the collarbone at the medial end of the cortex. Once this procedure is completed, the incision is closed by suturing and a bandage is wrapped around the area to prevent infections. The arm is then cast in a sling till the condition returns back to normal. The fixture of a plate in the collarbone allows early rehabilitation.

The clavicle fracture surgery recovery time, is determined by various factors like extent of the injury, the age of the individual and his response to the treatment administered. For the injury to heal completely, it can take approximately twelve weeks. Undergoing physical therapy will help speed up the recovery process. Stay healthy!