Clavicle Fracture Flashcards
In which group of patients are clavicle fractures common in
Adolescents and young adults but also in over 60s => linked to osteoporosis
How are clavicle fractures classified
Using the allman classification system which classifies them according to location
What is a Type 1 clavicle fracture
Fracture of the middle third of the clavicle - this is the weakest segment
Account for 75% of presentations
These are stable
What is a type 2 clavicle fracture
Fracture of the lateral third => 20% of all clavicle fractures - unstable
What is a type 3 clavicle fracture
Fracture in the medial third of the clavicle - 5% of cases
Can be associated with neurovascular compromise, pneumothorax, haemothorax
Label the clavicle
See teach me surgery picture
What are the two ways clavicle fractures occur
Direct trauma
- trauma to clavicle straight away
Indirect trauma
- such as a fall onto the shoulder
How do the fractured fragments displace after a fracture
Medial fragment will displace superiorly - SCM
Lateral fragment will displace inferiorly - weight of the arm
What are the clinical features of those presenting with clavicle fractures
Sudden onset localised pain
Worse on active movement
Focal tenderness
Deformity at the fracture site
Risk of open fracture as the clavicle is subcutaneous
Ensure the neurovascular status of the upper limb due to risk of brachial plexus injury
what are the differential diagnosis
Sternoclavicular dislocation
ACJ separation
How do you investigate clavicle fractures
Plain film X ray - AP
What is the management that is needed for clavicular fractures
Conservatively
Sling
Early movement of the shoulder joint recommended to prevent developing frozen shoulder
Sling is kept until there is pain free movement
Which clavicle fractures require surgical intervention
Open fractures
Even then its the ones that are comminuted or bilateral to help with weight bearing
What is the management of those fractures that have failed to unite
ORIF - open reduction internal fixation is needed which is normally performed, 2-3 months post injury
What are the complications for clavicle fractures
Non union - mostly associated with distal third clavicular fractures
Neurovascular problems
Pneumothorax
Haemothorax
