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Transaxillary First Rib Resection for Treatment of the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Published on: September 13, 2020
Complications associated with clavicular fracture
George Mouzopoulos1, Emmanuil Morakis, Michalis Stamatakos
1Orthopaedic Department of Evangelismos Hospital, Athens, Greece.
Orthopedic Nursing
|October 13, 2009
Summary
Clavicular fractures can lead to serious complications, including vessel injury and nonunion, often missed with simple sling treatment. Orthopaedic nurses must recognize these potential issues for effective patient care.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Trauma Care
Background:
- Clavicular fractures are common injuries.
- Often treated with symptomatic management (e.g., arm sling).
- Potential for significant, easily misdiagnosed complications exists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To inform orthopaedic nurses about clavicular fracture complications.
- To highlight potential diagnostic challenges.
- To provide essential knowledge for managing these fractures.
Main Methods:
- Literature review conducted.
- MEDLINE database searched from 1965 to 2005.
- Keywords used: clavicle, fracture, complications.
Main Results:
- Clavicular fractures can have poor outcomes despite apparent simplicity.
- Complications include subclavian vessel injury, hemopneumothorax, brachial plexus paresis, nonunion, malunion, and posttraumatic arthritis.
- Osteosynthesis may introduce additional complications.
Conclusions:
- Orthopaedic nurses require specific knowledge of clavicular fracture complications.
- Early recognition and management are crucial.
- Awareness of potential issues beyond simple fracture healing is necessary.
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