Clavicle Fracture (Broken Collarbone)

What Is a Broken Collarbone?

The collarbone, or clavicle, is the bone that connects the shoulder blade to the breastbone. It plays a crucial role in shoulder movement and stability. Clavicle fractures are common injuries, often resulting from:

• Falls onto the shoulder or outstretched arm.
• Sports-related collisions or impacts.
• Motor vehicle accidents.

The severity of the fracture can vary, ranging from a small crack to a complete break with bone displacement.

Symptoms of a Broken Collarbone

Common signs of a broken collarbone include:

• Severe pain at the site of the fracture.
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness along the collarbone.
• Difficulty or inability to move the arm on the injured side.
• A visible deformity or "bump" over the fracture site.
• A grinding sensation when moving the shoulder or arm.

If you suspect a broken collarbone, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best treatment approach.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

While many clavicle fractures can heal with non-surgical treatments like immobilization and physical therapy, surgery may be required for:

• Fractures where the bone is significantly displaced or misaligned.
• Open fractures where the bone pierces the skin.
• Fractures with multiple bone fragments (comminuted fractures).
• Fractures that do not heal properly with non-surgical treatment.

Surgical Options

At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, we use the latest techniques to ensure precise repair and optimal outcomes for broken collarbone surgery.

Plate and Screw Fixation

• The most common surgical method involves securing the broken pieces of the collarbone with a metal plate and screws.
• This technique realigns the bone fragments and stabilizes the fracture to promote proper healing.

Intramedullary Nailing

• In some cases, a metal rod (nail) may be inserted into the bone to stabilize the fracture from within.
• This minimally invasive option can reduce scarring and recovery time.

Our surgeons will discuss the best surgical approach for your specific fracture type and lifestyle.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from broken collarbone surgery typically follows these steps:

• Initial Healing: A sling is worn for the first few weeks to protect the repair and allow the bone to heal.
• Physical Therapy: Once the bone begins to heal, guided therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder and arm.
• Full Recovery: Most patients can return to normal activities within 3-6 months, depending on the severity of the fracture and the demands of their activities.

Why Choose Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush?

Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is a leader in orthopedic trauma care, offering expert diagnosis and treatment for broken collarbones and other complex fractures. Our multidisciplinary team combines advanced technology, surgical expertise, and compassionate care to ensure the best possible outcomes for every patient.