Fracture, Clavicle

Key Features

• Injury by fall on to shoulder or outstretched hand or by direct trauma

• Severe pain in the shoulder

• Fracture nonunion is unusual in young patients

• Athletes cannot return to contact sports for 8–12 weeks

Clinical Findings

• Focal swelling, deformity, and tenderness are present over the clavicle

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis is made by radiographs of the clavicle

• Fractures are most common in the middle third of the bone

Treatment

• Initial treatment is focused on pain control and protection with a sling and swathe

• Early range of motion is permitted based on pain level

• Progressive rehabilitation is important

• Absolute surgical indications for acute clavicular fractures include open fractures or neurovascular compromise