Clavicle fractures in adults; current concepts

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology
• Bone healing

Background:

• Clavicle fractures traditionally managed non-operatively.
• Recent data suggests increased non-union rates with conservative clavicle fracture treatment.
• Growing evidence supports surgical intervention for clavicle fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• Review current concepts in clavicle fracture management.
• Evaluate evidence for operative vs. non-operative clavicle fracture treatment.
• Provide guidance on clavicle fracture treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of conservative and operative treatment options for clavicle fractures.
• Discussion of indications for medial, shaft, and lateral clavicle fractures.
• Development of a treatment algorithm for clavicle fractures.

Main Results:

• Non-displaced clavicle fractures generally managed conservatively.
• Operative treatment considered for displaced clavicle fractures.
• Emphasis on patient factors like age and activity level in treatment decisions.

Conclusions:

• Conservative treatment remains standard for non-displaced clavicle fractures.
• Surgical intervention is a key consideration for displaced clavicle fractures.
• Shared decision-making is crucial for operative treatment of clavicle fractures, particularly in active individuals.