Segmental Clavicle Fracture in a Polytraumatized Patient: Case Report

Abstract

Clavicle fracture represents 5% of the fractures in adults. However, segmental clavicle fractures are infrequent and have been understudied in the current literature. Cases have been reported showing adequate results with both surgical and conservative management, and yet, it has not been possible to reach a consensus regarding diagnosis or management of such condition.

A patient with a middle and lateral segmental clavicle fracture is reported, after presenting multiple trauma in a road traffic accident, also suffering trauma to the right hemi body, multiple rib segmental fractures and hemothorax. After stabilization, he was taken to surgery for open reduction and internal fixation of the clavicle using a double plate technique, as it has been rarely described in the literature. The functional result was shown to be adequate and satisfactory in the postoperative follow-up.

Despite the limited evidence available on the management of this type of pathology, surgical management is a valid option given the risk of non-union. The foregoing is concluded by the potential harm in patient functionality.

Keywords
clavicle; fractures fixation; orthopedic surgery