Simultaneous middle third clavicle fracture and type 3 acromioclavicular joint dislocation; a case report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Simultaneous middle third clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations are uncommon injuries resulting from high-energy trauma.
• This specific combination requires careful surgical planning for optimal outcomes.

Observation:

• A patient presented with a rare ipsilateral middle third clavicle fracture and Grade III AC joint dislocation.
• The patient's primary goal was a rapid return to work.

Findings:

• Open reduction and internal fixation with a reconstruction plate were performed for the clavicle fracture.
• The AC joint dislocation was addressed with two cannulated cancellous screws, one engaging the clavicle plate and coracoid process.
• One-year follow-up revealed complete radiographic union of the clavicle fracture and anatomical reduction of the AC joint.

Implications:

• This surgical approach effectively treated the combined injury, restoring shoulder function.
• The patient achieved a pain-free, full range of motion, enabling a timely return to work.
• This case highlights a viable surgical strategy for managing this complex upper extremity trauma.