Clavicle Fractures
Causes, Symptoms, Types, Treatment Options, and Rehabilitation
A clavicle fracture, commonly known as a broken collarbone, is a prevalent injury that accounts for up to 10% of all adult fractures. The clavicle is a long bone that connects the shoulder blade to the sternum and plays a vital role in shoulder function and arm movement. The fractures can vary from minor cracks to complete breaks.
Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell, an orthopaedic surgeon in Adelaide, specialises in treating clavicle fractures. His expertise ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care for optimal recovery.
Understanding Clavicle Fractures
Anatomy of the Clavicle
The clavicle is an S-shaped bone that supports the shoulder blade and the sternum. It is essential for structural support and facilitates a wide range of shoulder movements. The clavicle also protects neurovascular structures beneath it.
Learn more about the shoulder here.
Causes of Clavicle Fractures
- Direct Impact: Often from sports injuries, falls, or accidents, resulting in a direct blow to the shoulder.
- Indirect Force: A fall onto an outstretched hand or a collision transmitting force to the clavicle.
- High-Energy Trauma: Motor vehicle accidents are common causes of severe cases.
Types of clavicle fractures
Three types of Clavicle fractures can occur: Midshaft, Distal and Medial.
Midshaft Fractures: The most common type occurs in the middle portion of the clavicle, which is the thinnest and weakest part of the bone. These fractures often exhibit significant displacement due to the pull of the pectoralis major and the arm's weight.
Distal Fractures: These occur near the acromioclavicular (AC) joint at the lateral end of the clavicle. They can be challenging to manage due to their complex anatomy and potential involvement of the coracoclavicular ligaments.
Medial Fractures: Less common, occurring at the medial end of the clavicle near the sternoclavicular (SC) joint.
Symptoms of Clavicle Fractures
Clavicle fractures, commonly called broken collarbones, can present with a range of symptoms that vary in intensity based on the severity and type of fracture. Recognising these symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Recognising the symptoms of a clavicle fracture is essential for timely medical intervention, as early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications. Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell, an orthopaedic surgeon in Adelaide, works in diagnosing and treating clavicle fractures, providing expert care for optimal recovery.
For more information and to schedule a consultation, contact Dr Oscar today.
How to Identify a Clavicle Fracture
Identifying a clavicle fracture involves looking for the symptoms mentioned above and seeking immediate medical attention for a proper diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell's expertise ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans for clavicle fractures. Diagnosis typically involves a simple standard series of x-rays to the clavicle region. The x-ray or radiograph will immediately confirm if there is a fracture. In some instances, a CT scan may be recommended for 3D planning of the fracture type for operative planning of screw and plate placement.
Treatment Options for Clavicle Fractures
The treatment approach for clavicle fractures depends on the severity and displacement of the fracture.
Non-surgical treatment
Rest and Immobilisation:
- Utilise a sling or figure-of-eight strap to stabilise the shoulder and allow the fractured clavicle to heal correctly.
- Prevents further displacement of bone fragments and promotes alignment for effective fusion.
Physical Therapy:
- Initiate gentle range-of-motion exercises to maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
- Progress to strengthening exercises to restore full shoulder mobility and strength as healing progresses.
Overall Benefits:
- The non-surgical approach minimises the risks associated with surgery.
- Promotes natural healing process with comprehensive care for optimal recovery.
Surgical Treatments
Types of Surgical Procedures:
- Plates and Screws:
This involves the surgical placement of metal plates and screws to hold the fractured bone fragments in proper alignment. The plates are positioned over the bone and secured with screws to stabilise the fracture and facilitate proper healing.
If you suspect a clavicle fracture, seek immediate medical attention. For more information and to schedule a consultation, contact Dr Oscar today and take the first step toward recovery from your clavicle fracture.
Monitoring Progress
Follow-up Visits:
Regular follow-up appointments with Dr Oscar or a healthcare provider are essential to monitor healing progress and ensure that rehabilitation milestones are met. If applicable, X-rays may be performed periodically to assess bone healing and the integration of any surgical hardware.
Individualised Care:
Dr Oscar provides individualised guidance throughout the recovery process, adjusting rehabilitation plans based on each patient's progress and specific needs. This personalised approach maximises recovery outcomes and reduces the risk of long-term complications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Choose Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell?
Qualifications and Experience
Dr Brumby-Rendell is a highly experienced orthopaedic surgeon in Adelaide. He prioritises expert patient education and care for his patients.
Rest assured, our clinics are conveniently located with easy access and ample parking. Don't hesitate to reach out – we're here to help you on your journey towards optimal collarbone health.