Broken Collarbone (Fractured clavicle)

These fractures most commonly occur due to direct trauma to the collarbone (clavicle) or due to a fall on an outstretched hand. Because of the pain, the patient tends to cradle the arm protectively against the upper body. Localised swelling is often visible.

Diagnosis:

An X-ray is generally sufficient to establish the diagnosis.

Treatment:

There are two basic approaches to treatment of broken collarbones: conservative and surgical.

Conservative Treatment:

Conservative treatment can be performed with very good results if the fracture is located in the inner or middle third of the collarbone and if the broken ends are not dislocated. Conservative treatment consists of:

Immobilisation of the clavicle with a figure of eight bandage
Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
Subsequent physiotherapy

Surgical Treatment:

Surgical treatment must be performed if the fracture is an open fracture (the ends of the bone penetrate the skin), if the collarbone is broken in more than two places, or if fracture has caused soft tissue and nerve damage. Surgical treatment is also performed as second-line treatment if all conservative treatment measures have failed. There are various surgical options available for immobilisation of these fractures (various reconstruction plates, pins, traction devices). The exact method used depends on the individual fracture conditions.

After surgery, the arm will be placed in a special bandage to protect the collarbone while it is healing. With the help of physiotherapy, mobility of the affected arm will be restored quickly.