Clavicular Fractures

Clavicle fractures are common in adults and children. Most commonly, these fractures occur within the middle third of the clavicle. Whereas many midshaft clavicle fractures can be treated nonsurgically, recent evidence suggests that more severe fracture types exhibit higher rates of symptomatic nonunion or malunion. Satisfactory clinical results with a low rate of complications can be achieved with precontoured locking plates for displaced midshaft clavicular fractures and a low rate of hardware removal compared with traditional plates. Most fractures of the medial or lateral end of the clavicle can be treated nonsurgically if fracture fragments remain nondisplaced. Surgical intervention may be required in cases of neurovascular compromise or significant fracture displacement. Current concepts of clavicle fracture management are discussed in this chapter including surgical indications, techniques, and results.