Clavicular fracture

A clavicular fracture, commonly known as a broken collarbone, is a break in the clavicle bone, which is located between the sternum (breastbone) and the scapula (shoulder blade). This type of injury is common, especially among athletes and individuals who experience direct trauma to the shoulder area. Here is an overview of clavicular fractures, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery:

### Causes
- **Falls:** Landing directly on the shoulder or an outstretched arm.
- **Sports Injuries:** Common in contact sports like football, hockey, or wrestling.
- **Accidents:** Such as bicycle, motorcycle, or car accidents.
- **Birth Injury:** Can occur during childbirth in newborns.

### Symptoms
- **Pain:** Immediate and severe pain at the site of the fracture.
- **Swelling:** Around the collarbone area.
- **Bruising:** Discoloration over the skin near the fracture.
- **Deformity:** A noticeable bump or deformity over the break site.
- **Limited Movement:** Difficulty moving the shoulder or arm.
- **Grinding Sensation:** A feeling of grinding or crunching when moving the shoulder.

### Diagnosis
- **Physical Examination:** A doctor will inspect the injury site, checking for tenderness, swelling, and deformity.
- **Imaging Tests:**
- **X-rays:** To determine the location and extent of the fracture.
- **CT Scans:** In complex cases, to get a detailed image of the fracture.

### Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity and type of fracture:

- **Non-Surgical Treatment:**
- **Arm Sling:** To immobilize the arm and shoulder.
- **Pain Management:** Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- **Physical Therapy:** Exercises to restore movement and strength after initial healing.

- **Surgical Treatment:**
- **Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):** Surgical procedure to realign the bone fragments using plates, screws, or rods. This is usually considered if the bone is severely displaced or if there are multiple fractures.

### Recovery
- **Healing Time:** Typically, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for adults and 3 to 6 weeks for children.
- **Rehabilitation:** Physical therapy is essential to restore full function and strength.
- **Follow-Up:** Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress via X-rays.

### Complications
- **Nonunion:** Failure of the bone ends to heal together.
- **Malunion:** Healing of the bone in an incorrect position.
- **Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury:** Rare, but possible due to the proximity of the clavicle to these structures.

### Prevention
- **Protective Gear:** Wearing appropriate protective equipment during sports.
- **Fall Prevention:** Using caution to prevent falls, particularly in high-risk activities.

### When to Seek Medical Attention
- If you suspect a clavicular fracture due to a fall or impact, or if there is severe pain, deformity, or an inability to move the shoulder, seek immediate medical attention.

### Prognosis
Most people recover fully from a clavicular fracture with appropriate treatment. Surgical outcomes are generally good, with a high rate of return to normal activities.

### Conclusion
Clavicular fractures are common but treatable injuries. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for optimal recovery and minimizing complications. If you suspect a clavicular fracture, consult a healthcare provider promptly.