Management of Patients with the Clavicle Fracures

Abstract

Clavicle fracture is one of the most common shoulder girdle injuries that requires timely diagnosis. The great risk of getting a clavicle fracture is associated primarily with the fact that the clavicle is the only rigid connecting part between the entire skeleton and a separate upper limb. The clavicle is a small bone that looks like an  S-shaped curved key, which determined the bone name.

A clavicle fracture can be either open or closed, with or without displacement. Displacement damage is considered the most complicated. In addition, a fracture can be complicated by the presence of small bone fragments that can get into the soft tissues, into the joint, and damage the lung. It all depends on where exactly the injury occurred. The presence of a fracture can be determined by general practitioner during physical examination, knowing about the symptoms of this injury. However, it is recommended to refer patient to the traumatologist or orthopedist-traumatologist. The specialist can provide proper treatment.

The objective: of the article is to provide materials for distance learning of general practitioners on modern methods of diagnosis and treatment of clavicle fractures.

Materials and methods. Treatment for a clavicle fracture is to fix the bone in the correct position for a while for a good consolidation. Based on the analysis of modern recommendations, the authors presented information on modern approaches to non-surgical and surgical treatment of clavicle fractures.

Results. Material for distance learning on diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients with clavicle fractures was provided; indications for surgical treatment, methods of such treatment were determined; an algorithm for management of patient with a clavicle fracture is presented to determine the optimal treatment tactics and rehabilitation measures.

Conclusion. Clavicle fractures are an actual problem. Family doctors should be informed about diagnostic methods and know modern approaches to treatment and rehabilitation. Complications after a clavicle fracture are very rare, but the possible consequences depend on the trauma severity and right approaches of treatment.