Clavicle Fracture Flashcards
1
Q
What is the most common bony injury in children, adolescents and newborns?
A
A clavicle fracture
2
Q
What is the MOI of a clavicle fracture?
A
Mid-high energy impact to area
*middle third is most common
*will be a history of falling on shoulder or being struck over clavicle by heavy object
3
Q
What are the symptoms of a clavicular fracture?
A
- Difficulty raising arm secondary to pain
4
Q
What will be on the physical exam?
A
- Deformity at fracture site (tenting)
- Tenderness
- Assess neurovascular status
- Assess sternoclavicular joint tenderness/dislocation
- Assess for AC joint tenderness/injury
5
Q
What tests should be conducted?
A
- AP X-rays of the entire clavicle (not just shoulder films)
- CT if X-ray is unclear
6
Q
What are some complications of a clavicle fracture?
A
- Pneumothorax (due to downward displacement of the clavicle)
- Coracoclavicular ligament disruption
- Hemothorax
- Brachial plexus injuries
7
Q
What is the treatment?
A
- Sling for 4-6 weeks
*gentle motion begins at 3 weeks
*no contact sports/weight lifting for 3-4 months
8
Q
What is surgical treatment used for?
A
- Open fracture
- Neurovascular injury
- Severe ipsilateral chest injury
9
Q
When to refer?
A
- If fracture is proximal 1/3
- Painful nonunion after 4 months of treatment