The clavicle, or collarbone, is the long bone that runs across the top of each shoulder, connecting the upper arm with the spine and vertebrae. The clavicle is themost frequently fractured bone in the body, most often as the result of a sports injury, motor vehicle accident, or fall. A broken collarbone commonly causes pain, swelling, and bruising, making it difficult to lift your arms.
Though a broken clavicle can sometimes heal without surgery, there are certain conditions that may require a surgical procedure:
- The same collarbone broken more than once
- Fractures that breaks the skin (“open” fractures)
- Fractures where the broken ends overlap each other
- Fractures with blood vessel or nerve damage
- Fractures in the collarbone and scapula at the same time
Traditional Treatment Options for Broken Collarbones
One of the most common approaches to treating a broken clavicle is the use of plates and screws. With this procedure, a surgeon pieces the broken bones back together and uses metal plates and screws to hold the bone in place as it heals. In most instances, the screws and plates are left in the bone, but they can be removed, if necessary.
A less intrusive approach is to surgically insert pins to hold the broken pieces in place as they heal. Pins are more likely to cause irritation in the long run and are customarily removed after the bones have properly knit back together.
A More Modern Approach to the Treatment of a Broken Clavicle
A relatively new procedure, known as a percutaneous elastic intramedullary nailing of the clavicle, offers improved healing with fewer complications. This procedure involves the insertion of an elastic nail, which remains for two to three months before being surgically removed. This method promotes faster recovery, making it ideal for athletes and adolescents.