INTRODUCTION
Before we start the clinical indications of clavicle bone we will give its brief introduction and anatomical features. clavicle literally means key because it looks like a key. It is the primary connection between the upper limb and the trunk, providing basic stability and motility.
Anatomy and its fracture
A clavicle is a horizontal bone connected medially to the manubrium of the sternum and literally to the acromion process scapula. It mainly consists of three parts, medial end, literal end and a shaft between them. its unique position makes it susceptible to fracture particularly in the middle third.
Complications
Below mentioned is a list of indications for a surgical treatment of clavicle fracture:
Articulation fracture
Fracture to the bone near the joint lead to the following complications
Post-traumatic arthritis
Joint instability
Avascular necrosis
Pain
Impaired shoulder movements
Comminuted fracture
It occurs when bone breaks into multiple pieces and leads to the following complications:
Nonunion (failure of the bone to heal)
Malunion (improper alignment or healing)
Delayed healing
Increased risk of infection
Surgical intervention
Open fracture
When the broken bone pierce through skin creating an open wound leads to the following complications
Infection
Soft tissue damage
Delayed healing
Scarring
Functional limitations
Nerves and blood vessels damage
Nerve damage usually leads to numbness, tingling, muscles weakness and loss of sensation while vascular damage causes ischemia, weakness and inadequate blood flow to the upper limb.
Displaced fracture
Extreme or distal displaced fracture of clavicle leads to some serious complications like nerve or vascular damage, delayed healing, nonunion or malunion and functional limitations.