What is a Clavicle Fracture?
The break or fracture of the clavicle (collarbone) is a common sports injury associated with contact sports such as football and martial arts, as well as impact sports such as motor racing. A direct blow over the shoulder that may occur during a fall on an outstretched arm or a motor vehicle accident may cause the clavicle bone to break.
Symptoms of Clavicle Fractures
A broken clavicle may cause difficulty in lifting your arm because of pain, swelling and bruising over the bone.
Indications for Clavicle Fracture Surgery
A broken clavicle bone usually heals without surgery, but if the bone ends have shifted out of place (displaced), surgery will be recommended. Surgery for the fixation of clavicle fractures may be considered in the following circumstances:
- Multiple fractures
- Compound (open) fractures
- Fractures associated with nerve or blood vessel damage
- Scapula fracture
- Overlapping of the broken ends of the bone (shortened clavicle)
Treatments for Clavicle Fractures
Surgery is performed to align the bone ends and hold them stable during healing. This improves shoulder strength. Some of the surgeries are listed below.
Plates and Screws Fixation
During this surgical procedure, your surgeon will reposition the broken bone ends into normal position and then uses special screws or metal plates to hold the bone fragments in place. These plates and screws are usually left in the bone but can be removed after fracture healing is complete if they cause any irritation.
Pins
The placement of pins may also be considered to hold the fracture in position. They often cause irritation in the skin at the site of insertion and must be removed once the fracture heals.
Percutaneous Elastic Intramedullary Nailing of the Clavicle
This is a newer and less invasive procedure with fewer complications. It is considered as a safe method for fixation of displaced clavicle fractures in adolescents and athletes as it allows rapid healing and faster return to sports. The procedure is performed under fluoroscopic guidance. It involves a small 1 cm skin incision near the sternoclavicular joint. A hole is then drilled in the anterior cortex and an elastic nail is inserted into the medullary canal of the clavicle. The nail is then passed on to reach the fracture site. A second operation to remove the nail will be performed after 2-3 months.
Complications of Clavicle Fracture Surgery
You are at a greater risk of complications during and after clavicle fracture surgery if you have diabetes, are elderly and use tobacco products. In addition to the risks that occur with any major surgery, certain specific risks of clavicle fracture surgery include difficulty in bone healing, lung injury, and irritation caused by hardware.
Why Choose Dr. Acevedo for Clavicle Fractures
Clavicle (collarbone) fractures are common injuries that can vary from simple breaks to complex, displaced fractures requiring precise treatment. Patients choose Daniel C. Acevedo for his specialized expertise in shoulder injuries and fracture care.
Reasons to choose Dr. Acevedo include:
- Fellowship-trained specialist in shoulder and elbow surgery
- Extensive experience treating simple and complex clavicle fractures
- Expertise in both non-surgical care and surgical fixation techniques
- Focus on restoring proper bone alignment, shoulder function, and symmetry
- Careful evaluation of fracture type, displacement, and patient activity level
- Advanced surgical techniques when needed, including plate and screw fixation
- Personalized treatment plans based on lifestyle, injury severity, and recovery goals
- Emphasis on minimizing complications such as malunion or shoulder dysfunction
- Comprehensive care from initial injury through rehabilitation
- Commitment to patient education and clear communication at every stage
Clavicle Fracture FAQs
What are the symptoms of a broken collarbone?
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the shoulder or collarbone area
- Swelling and bruising
- Difficulty moving the arm
- A visible bump or deformity over the bone
- Shoulder drooping or misalignment
Symptoms typically occur immediately after injury.
How is a clavicle fracture diagnosed?
A clavicle fracture is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests. X-rays are commonly used to confirm the fracture and determine its location and severity. In some cases, additional imaging such as a CT scan may be recommended.
Do all clavicle fractures require surgery?
No, most clavicle fractures heal without surgery using a sling, rest, and physical therapy. Surgery may be recommended if the fracture is significantly displaced, involves multiple fragments, or affects nearby structures such as nerves or blood vessels.
When can I return to sports or physical activity after a clavicle fracture?
Return to sports depends on the severity of the fracture and how well it has healed. Light activities may resume within a few weeks, but contact sports or heavy lifting are typically avoided for at least 2 to 3 months. Your doctor will confirm when it is safe to return based on healing and shoulder strength.
What complications can occur with a clavicle fracture?
Although most clavicle fractures heal well, potential complications include improper healing (malunion), delayed healing, or nonunion. Some patients may also experience shoulder weakness, reduced range of motion, or a visible bump at the fracture site. Early evaluation and appropriate treatment help minimize these risks.
