Clavicle (Collar Bone) Fracturedoldmd2022-12-08T17:06:50-05:00

Definition

A clavicle fracture is a common injury caused by trauma to the shoulder. This diagnosis is most commonly seen in males under 30 years old, but can be seen in all populations. Approximately 80% of these fractures will occur in the middle third of the clavicle due to the lack of muscular and ligamentous support to this section of the bone.

Anatomy

The collar bone is an S-shaped bone that resides between the scapula (shoulder blade) and the sternum. It acts as a strut between the shoulder girdle and the thorax, or ribcage. When the clavicle breaks, the medial fragment generally displaces superiorly and posteriorly due to attachment of the sternocleidomastoid muscle while the lateral fragment displaces inferiorly, shortened, and internally rotated due to the pectoralis muscle and weight of the arm.

Patient Presentation

Collar bone fractures are typically the result of a fall onto the affected arm or direct trauma to the shoulder. Symptoms after sustaining a clavicle fracture include pain over the collar bone, inability to move the shoulder without discomfort, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and possible deformity if the fracture is significantly displaced.

Diagnosis

X-rays are needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of a clavicle fracture. An AP view of your shoulder will be performed as well as a Zanca view which helps to determine degree of displacement. CT scans are rarely required. A physical exam will also be performed to assess for areas of tenderness, deformities, skin changes, and possible neurovascular injuries.

Classification

Clavicle fractures are first organized by their location on the bone. Middle third clavicle fractures are most common followed by the lateral third and then the medial third. There are several classification systems that can be utilized.

Allman Classification

Group 1 = Middle third

Group 2 = Lateral third

Group 3 = Medial third

Neer Classification

The Neer Classification further differentiates group 2 fractures of the Allman classification.

The Neer Classification of Clavicle Fractures

AO/OTA Classification:

Proximal (medial) segment – extra-articular, partial articular, complete articular
Middle (diaphyseal) segment – simple, wedge, multi-fragmentary
Distal (lateral) segment – extra-articular, partial articular, complete articular
- CC ligament complex intact, non-displaced – non-operative
- CC ligament complex partial disruption, displaced – non-operative vs operative
- CC ligament complex complete disruption, displaced – operative

The AO Classification of Clavicle Fractures

Non-Operative Vs Operative Management

Most clavicle fractures are managed non-operatively in a sling for 2-3 weeks along with rest, ice, and physical therapy. The sling or shoulder immobilizer will provide support for the shoulder while the fracture heals. The patient may remove the sling when he or she has minimal pain and x-rays show the fracture is healing appropriately. Gentle range of motion exercises can begin at 2-4 weeks, strengthening at 6-10 weeks and most patients have no restrictions by 12 weeks.

Surgery may be recommended for significantly displaced clavicle fractures to decrease the incidence of malunion or nonunion across the fracture site. In the right patient, this may improve functional outcomes and overall satisfaction with your shoulder. Surgery may also be considered in contact athletes or year-round athletes due to quicker return to sport.

Complications of surgery are rare but can include damage to neurovascular structures, infection, malunion, nonunion, or hardware prominence that may require removal if continuously symptomatic. These complications are more common in smokers, patients with poor nutrition, diabetes, and steroid use.

Dr. Dold is accepting new patients. To schedule a consultation, either schedule online (our staff will contact you within one business day to confirm appointment date and time) or call the office at 469.850.0680.