Bipolar Clavicle Fracture in Elderly: A Rare Case Report

Clavicle fractures are more common, accounts for about 2.6-4% of all fractures in adults. Of these, 69-82% are midshaft clavicle fractures, followed by lateral clavicle fractures, which accounts for 21-28% and medial clavicle fractures, which are the rarest one accounts for about 2-3%. Bipolar clavicle fractures are defined as lateral and medial end clavicle fractures, accounts for only 2-8% of all clavicle fractures.

We present the case of a 61-year-old female, came with right shoulder pain and swelling following an alleged history of a fall. Initially managed as a lateral end clavicle fracture, further radiological evaluation revealed a bipolar clavicle fracture. Patient managed operatively with open reduction and internal fixation using locking plates and screws.

A bipolar clavicle fracture is the result of direct trauma to the shoulder region, commonly following road traffic accidents. In elderly patients with osteoporotic bone, it has been reported to occur with trivial trauma. Due to the rarity of bipolar clavicle fracture, it's often missed initially. Proper clinicoradiological evaluation with the aid of computed tomography scan is necessary. With the scarcity of proper treatment guidelines, bipolar clavicle fractures are mostly treated operatively.

Bipolar clavicle fractures are rare but require timely intervention for optimal recovery. Dual plating provides rigid fixation and favorable outcomes.