Clavicle is one of the most superficial bones in the body. It is placed right at the base of the neck and next to the shoulder. Internally, this bone is involved in the formation of the shoulder as well. In common language this bone is called the collar bone. Women also refer to it as the beauty bone.
With all these specifications, it is also one of the most commonly occurring fractured bones. This is because it is placed quite close to the skin, also, it is not very protected by the muscular mass, but is placed right under the layer of skin.
Fractures of clavicle
This bone makes up to 5% of the total bone fractures occurring in a year. Why is that so? Because the structure and shape of this bone is not as sturdy as a weight bearing bone. The L shaped, horizontally placed bone is easily targeted during any fall or traumatic incident. A fall in any direction except the ones on the back or the feet, will damage this bone.
The fractures here, can be of any nature. Some can be displacing, others can be piercing and tearing, while most are hairline or simple fractures. Each fracture has a different treatment demand. Some are better treated with closed management while other cannot be treated without a surgical procedure.
Non-surgical management
The bones of the upper body or the head, shoulder and arm region are said to have a better healing and self-treating ability than those of lower limbs. It is said that most clavicular fractures require no tear and cut but are healed quicker when managed over the skin.
Professional realign and position the bone with the help of shoulder position. Slings are used to keep the arm in optimal position. This makes the fractured pieces come closer and prevent from any further internal damage. This healing process can take up to 6 months to years in order to heal completely. Fictional and weight bearing abilities return after a short while of taking care and having good diet.
Surgical treatment
Severe fractures that split the bone into several pieces require a surgery to unite the bone. In some cases, this procedure is carried out without the insertion of any foreign material used but most of the times, the plates and nuts are involve. These plates are screwed in the bone after placing each piece of the bone precisely to its normal position.
The heling process for a surgical management can take up to years depending upon the doctor’s plan, as well as the condition of the bone. The prosthetics used are removed initially after 6 months and typically after the union of the bone.
This process appears to be more vigilant but there are a few things that need to be taken care of during the surgery and recovery time period.
Complications
Many patients experience sever pain and discomfort from the plates and screws introduced. Some could even palpate them over their bone.
The surgically introduced materials can be displaced by jerks and small pressure application. This can be done due to wearing seatbelts, back packs or carrying weights on the shoulder.
Infection can also be caused if the wounds are not dealt carefully. These infections can easily reach the bone and cause serious problems such as bone degeneration.
During and after the installation of plates and nuts, there can be a nerve or vessel entrapment that may lead to some neurological/ fictional disorder in the associated structures.
Patients who have a history of diabetes, cardiac disorders, smoking, bone disorders, deficiencies suffer from the complications of the surgery more often.
Consult a doctor
If you had a fall or may sense that there is a fracture at your clavicle bone, consult the general surgeon in Karachi. If you live in the norther region of Pakistan, general surgeon in Islamabad can give you best advice for your condition.