Management of clavicle fractures
George Guntur A Pujalte1, Jeffrey A Housner
1Primary Care Sports Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5239, USA. georgegu@med.umich.edu
Current Sports Medicine Reports
|September 6, 2008
Summary
Clavicle fractures are common injuries diagnosed via physical exam and X-rays. Recent studies suggest plate fixation for displaced midshaft fractures improves outcomes compared to non-operative care.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Traumatology
Background:
- Clavicle fractures are frequent injuries across all age groups.
- Diagnosis relies primarily on history, physical examination, and plain radiographs.
- Historically, operative treatment was reserved for unstable distal clavicle fractures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the management of clavicle fractures.
- To highlight recent evidence on operative versus non-operative treatment for midshaft clavicle fractures.
- To discuss considerations for return to sports after clavicle fracture.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and clinical practice guidelines.
- Analysis of recent studies comparing operative and non-operative management of clavicle fractures.
- Discussion of diagnostic modalities and treatment options.
Main Results:
- Plate fixation for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures shows improved functional outcomes, reduced malunion, and non-union rates compared to non-operative treatment.
- Non-operative management options include sling-and-swathe or figure-of-eight splints.
- Return to sports participation requires consideration of multiple individual factors.
Conclusions:
- Recent evidence supports operative management with plate fixation for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures.
- Non-operative treatments remain viable for certain clavicle fractures.
- Individualized counseling is crucial for athletes regarding return to sport timelines.
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