Clavicle fracture

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Clavicle fracture
X-ray of a clavicle fracture
Synonyms	Broken collarbone
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pain, swelling, bruising, deformity
Complications	Pneumothorax, neurovascular injury, nonunion
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Weeks to months
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma, falls, sports injuries
Risks	Contact sports, bicycle accidents, motor vehicle collisions
Diagnosis	Physical examination, X-ray
Differential diagnosis	Acromioclavicular joint injury, shoulder dislocation
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Sling, physical therapy, surgery
Medication	Analgesics
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Clavicle Fracture A clavicle fracture, also known as a broken collarbone, is a common injury that occurs in the clavicle, one of the main bones in the shoulder. This type of fracture typically results from a direct blow to the shoulder, such as during a fall or a sports-related injury.

Causes

The most common cause of a clavicle fracture is a fall onto the shoulder or an outstretched arm. This can occur during various activities, such as cycling, football, and skiing. Other causes can include car accidents and, in newborns, the passage through the birth canal.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of a clavicle fracture include pain, swelling, and an inability to move the arm. There may also be a noticeable deformity or bump over the break. Bruising, tenderness, and a grinding sensation when the arm is moved are also common.

Diagnosis

A clavicle fracture is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays. In some cases, a CT scan may be used to provide more detailed images.

Treatment

Treatment for a clavicle fracture often depends on the nature of the fracture. Non-surgical treatment options include the use of a sling to immobilize the arm, pain medication, and physical therapy. Surgical treatment may be required for more severe fractures and can involve the use of plates, screws, or pins to hold the bone in place while it heals.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, most people with a clavicle fracture can expect to make a full recovery. However, complications can occur, including nerve or blood vessel damage, infection, and nonunion of the fracture.

Gallery

• 
  Clavicle fracture on the left side
• 
  Animated depiction of a clavicle fracture
• 
  Illustration of a clavicle fracture
• 
  Post-operative image of a clavicle fracture

See also

• Bone fracture
• Orthopedic surgery
• Physical therapy

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