Clavicle Fracture
Andreas Leonidou
Andreas Leonidou
56 Kifisias Ave. & Delfon St.,
Marousi, 15125
- Symptoms
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Cost
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A clavicle fracture is a break (crack) in the clavicle, one of the main bones of the shoulder. The clavicle is the only connecting bone between the trunk and the upper limb. This type of fracture is quite common and accounts for 5% of all adult fractures. A clavicle fracture is usually caused by an acute injury, such as a fall, sports injury, or a car accident.
CLAVICLE FRACTURE: CAUSES
Clavicle fractures are most commonly caused by a direct blow to the shoulder. This can occur during a fall onto the shoulder or an accident, such as a car collision. A fall onto an outstretched hand (such as a fall from a motorcycle) can also cause a clavicle fracture.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A CLAVICLE FRACTURE?
A clavicle fracture is a very painful injury. The main symptoms include:
Severe pain
Shoulder deformity: the shoulder drops downward or forward because the bone no longer provides support
Stiffness: difficulty moving or raising the limb, with a possible grinding sensation
Swelling and bruising
Numbness or tenderness in the area
HOW IS A CLAVICLE FRACTURE DIAGNOSED?
If you think you have broken your clavicle, seek medical attention immediately. The Orthopaedic Surgeon will examine the area and request X-rays to confirm the fracture (break). The X-rays will show exactly where the fracture is located and the extent of the injury. If the fracture is comminuted or there are other associated fractures (such as of the scapula or humerus), the Orthopaedic Surgeon will request further imaging evaluation with a CT scan.
CLAVICLE FRACTURE: TREATMENT
Treatment for a clavicle fracture is divided into non-surgical and surgical options, depending on the severity of the fracture.
Non-surgical Treatment
For fractures with minimal displacement and those without significant comminution, conservative treatment is selected, which includes:
Immobilisation of the shoulder using a sling for 4–6 weeks
Medication: administration of analgesic medication
Ice therapy
Complete healing of the fracture may take 3–6 months, with a small percentage of fractures ultimately failing to heal (non-union). In addition, the fracture may heal in an improper position, resulting in cosmetic deformity in the area and persistent pain. If the fracture heals in a malaligned position with subsequent shortening of the clavicle, there may be noticeable dysfunction during sports activities and weightlifting.
Recovery after a clavicle fracture includes an organised physiotherapy programme aimed at preventing shoulder stiffness and restoring strength in the area.
Surgical Treatment
If there is significant comminution and displacement (>2 cm) of the fracture fragments, the Orthopaedic Surgeon recommends surgical treatment of the condition. Surgical treatment is also performed in fractures where the skin is at risk due to pressure from the bone, as well as in cases where the fracture has failed to heal (non-union). The surgical procedure involves restoring the displaced bone fragments to their anatomical position and stabilising them with a metal plate and specialised screws.
Surgical treatment has the following advantages:
Faster return to work and sports activities
Less pain
Minimal possibility of fracture non-union
Faster fracture healing as the bone fragments are brought into contact with each other
RECOVERY AFTER CLAVICLE FRACTURE SURGERY
Before discharge from the hospital, the patient will discuss in detail with Dr Leonidou the surgical findings and will receive the relevant booklet with postoperative instructions. After surgery, the patient will wear a sling for 4 weeks. Movements below shoulder level are encouraged from the first postoperative day. The patient will be monitored by a physiotherapist from our team, following an individualised rehabilitation protocol. Most patients fully return to their daily activities within one month.
CAN I HAVE AN MRI WITH INTERNAL FIXATION MATERIALS?
Dr Leonidou uses the most modern and reliable materials. Patients can safely undergo MRI scans postoperatively.
DO I NEED TO REMOVE THE INTERNAL FIXATION MATERIALS?
Removal of the materials is recommended only if they are palpable beneath the skin, cause discomfort, and at least 12 months have passed since surgery.
WHAT IS THE COST OF SURGERY FOR THE TREATMENT OF A CLAVICLE FRACTURE?
The cost is quite affordable and depends on the severity of the fracture and the specialised materials that need to be used. For more information regarding the procedure and the cost of surgery, you can contact us.
If you have sustained a clavicle fracture, consult the specialised Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Andreas Leonidou.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialist care, and targeted treatment in just one visit.