Pneumothorax complicating a fracture of the clavicle

Fractures of the clavicle, while common, are associated with few serious complications. The authors report the case of a 29-year-old man with a simple fracture of the middle third of the clavicle that was associated with a 30% pneumothorax. The force and mechanism of the injury, severe pleuritic pain and reduced breath sounds suggested the diagnosis which was confirmed roentgenographically. The possibility of pneumothorax must be considered in any patient with a fracture of the clavicle, especially in the unconscious patient who has sustained multiple injuries.