A midshaft clavicle fracture is a complete or incomplete fracture (break) in the middle third of the clavicle (collarbone), in the shaft. This is the most common location for a clavicle fracture. For significantly displaced midshaft clavicle fractures, open fractures, or fractures associated with other significant nerve, blood vessel, or bone injuries, surgery may be recommended.
What Is a Mid-Shaft Clavicle Fracture?
A midshaft clavicle fracture is a complete or incomplete break in the middle third of the clavicle (collarbone). This is the most common location for a clavicle fracture.
For significantly displaced midshaft clavicle fractures, open fractures, or fractures associated with other significant nerve, blood vessel, or bone injuries, surgery is recommended. Surgery can stabilize the fracture in the proper position to allow healing, movement of the patient, and protection for other associated injuries.
Treatment
For significantly displaced midshaft clavicle fractures, open fractures, or fractures associated with other significant nerve, blood vessel, or bone injuries, surgery is recommended.
Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) consists of making a small open incision over the clavicle, repositioning the fracture fragments, and holding them in place with plates, screws, wires, sutures, or pins.
Dr. Chudik developed and proved the clinical and biomechanical success of using straight, shorter plates with fewer screws and a smaller surgical exposure for clavicle fractures. During surgery, X-ray is used to ensure that all fragments are appropriately aligned. After the fracture heals, fixation devices may be removed if needed.
Recovery and Outcomes
Following surgery, shoulder motion is restricted in a sling for six weeks to protect the repair and allow it to heal. Patients use the sling at all times except for bathing, dressing, and exercises during this period, including while sleeping.
Physical therapy should begin two to three days after surgery and continue for four to six months. Return to school or sedentary work may occur in less than one to two weeks as long as the sling is worn and the extremity is not used. Driving may be resumed after six to eight weeks.
Patients may return to unlimited activities when there is no pain, full shoulder range of motion, muscle strength and endurance, and the fracture is healed. This usually requires three months following a midshaft clavicle ORIF. Dr. Chudik will clear patients to resume all activities.
When to See Dr. Chudik
Schedule an evaluation after any fall or blow to the shoulder that produces immediate pain at the collarbone, visible deformity, or inability to move the arm. Call 630-324-0402 or request an appointment online.