Obstetric clavicular fractures. A three-year analysis

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Neonatal clavicular fractures are a known complication of childbirth.
• Understanding risk factors is crucial for prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of clavicular fractures in term deliveries.
• To identify factors correlated with clavicular fractures.
• To assess associated neonatal outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of deliveries over three years.
• Analysis of 24 cases of fractured clavicles, with 15 cases thoroughly reviewed.
• Correlation analysis with various obstetric and neonatal parameters.

Main Results:

• Incidence of clavicular fractures was 7.2 per 1,000 term deliveries.
• Fractures were significantly correlated with birth weight, obstetrician experience, and midforceps delivery.
• No strong correlation was found with anesthesia type, labor duration, or Apgar scores.
• Only one infant experienced neurologic injury.

Conclusions:

• Birth weight, physician experience, and midforceps delivery are key risk factors for neonatal clavicular fractures.
• The complication is generally associated with good neonatal outcomes.
• Further research into preventive strategies is warranted.