The shoulder girdle is formed from the scapula (shoulder blade) and the clavicle, a long s-shaped bone more commonly known as the collarbone. The clavicle connects the upper limb to the trunk and transfers outside forces from the upper extremity to the axial skeleton. A clavicle fracture is often the result of a traumatic event such as a fall onto an outstretched arm. This is a common injury as clavicle fractures account for approximately 5 percent of adult broken bones. A clavicle fracture is a very painful injury that can result in difficulties with performing activities of daily living.
While the majority of clavicle fractures can be successfully treated with conservative therapies alone, there are several instances when more invasive treatment is necessary to realign a clavicle fracture:
A clavicle fracture repair is accomplished through a surgical procedure known as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). This minimally invasive outpatient procedure aims to reunite the clavicle fragments back into the correct anatomical location. A nerve block is usually administered for anesthesia and can last for several hours after the procedure. When the patient is stabilized, Dr. McCormick will make a few small incisions over the clavicle fracture site. The broken clavicle fragments are then manually manipulated into the correct anatomical configuration through an open reduction technique. When the fragments are properly aligned, they are internally fixed by fastening special plates and screws to ensure proper fusion of these bony fragments. Depending on the complexity of the clavicle fracture, more plates and screws may be necessary to accomplish the internal fixation.
The severity and complexity of the clavicle injury determine the recovery period following a successful clavicle fracture repair. Patients in Orlando, Palm Beach County, and the surrounding Florida communities can expect a return to their normal daily and athletic activities in approximately 3 months. The recovery process after surgery begins with the immobilization of the clavicle for approximately 4 to 6 weeks to protect the clavicle and ensure proper fusion of the bony fragments. The key to recovering from a clavicle fracture repair is adhering to and completing the individualized physical rehabilitation program. This physical therapy program begins approximately 4 to 6 weeks after surgery and aims to strengthen and restore movement to the repaired clavicle.
For more information on shoulder labrum and SLAP tear repairs, or to discuss your shoulder labrum treatment options, please contact the office of Frank McCormick, MD, orthopedic shoulder doctor serving Orlando, Kissimmee, Palm Beach County, Florida, and the surrounding areas.
