Mid-shaft Clavicle Fracture with Disguised Ipsilateral Type IV Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation - A Rare Case...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Management

Background:

• Clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular (AC) joint disruptions are common orthopedic injuries.
• Simultaneous occurrence of these injuries is exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic and management challenges.

Observation:

• A 21-year-old male presented with a right mid-shaft clavicle fracture after a road traffic accident.
• Intraoperative findings revealed an incidental type 4 Rockwood AC joint disruption with posterior displacement and instability.

Findings:

• The clavicle fracture was managed with plating.
• The AC joint disruption was surgically repaired using Ethibond sutures with intraosseous sutures and augmented with a trans-acromion K-wire.
• Post-operative K-wire removal and physiotherapy led to full range of motion recovery.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis and timely surgical intervention are crucial for managing combined clavicle fractures and AC joint disruptions.
• Successful management can restore shoulder function and improve patient outcomes.
• This case highlights an effective surgical approach for this rare injury pattern.