Fractures of the clavicle

Abstract

The clavicula fracture has a high incidence with up to 5 % of all fractures. The most common classification of clavicula fractures given by Allman takes into account the anatomic localization of the fracture (medial/middle/lateral). The treatment options will depend on the localization as well as the displacement of the fracture. Undisplaced fractures of the clavicle have a high rate of union with good functional outcome after nonoperative treatment. Displaced and lateralized fractures of the clavicle have a high rate of nonunion under nonoperative treatment. A high rate of union and good clinical outcome has been showed with primary surgical treatment. The osteosynthesis of the collar bone can be done with extramedullary plates or intramedullary nails. The rate of pseudarthrosis for the interlocking osteosynthesis with plates is very low.