About this disease
What it is about
Injuries to the clavicle occur when falling on the shoulder, for example, while mountain biking, skiing or snowboarding. About 35% of all injuries to the shoulder girdle involve the clavicle. A distinction is made between fractures in the middle, inner and outer thirds of the clavicle. The middle third is most frequently affected.
Symptoms and consequences
The shoulder or arm can no longer be moved and loaded properly after the fall and hurts. There is swelling and a hematoma, sometimes also a visible step formation.
What we do for you
Examination and diagnosis
In the Männedorf Hospital emergency department, the necessary clarifications and X-rays are taken and initial treatment with immobilization and pain therapy is initiated. Depending on the type of injury, we recommend conservative or surgical treatment. If surgery is necessary, the further procedure is planned together with the patient.
Treatment
Conservative therapy involves temporary immobilization of the affected shoulder followed by mobilization under the guidance of physiotherapy. In surgery, osteosynthesis is performed with plate and screws or nail. After that, mobilization under the guidance of physiotherapy begins quickly. Initially, movement without weight bearing is allowed. If the X-ray control shows a good healing process after 6 weeks, weight bearing can be started. 18 months after osteosynthesis, metal removal can be performed.