Management of Clavicular Fractures

Background: Fractures of the clavicle are a common presentation at the accident and emergency and outpatient clinics following road traffic accidents and birth trauma. Injuries may result from either direct or indirect trauma to the shoulder. Treatment varies from non-operative measures (arm sling, figure of 8) to surgical measures. Methods: A retrospective study in which case files of patients with clavicle fractures where retrieved over 5 years and cases studied, i. e. demography, mechanism of injury, type of clavicular fracture, treatment offered. Results: A total of 58 cases were seen with a male female ratio of 2.4: 1. Ages ranged from 1 day old to 65 years with a mean age of 32years +/- 1.8 The left clavicle accounted for 70 % and there were no complications from these injuries, there were however associated injuries. Direct injury to the shoulder accounted for 48.2 % and were of Almann class type 1 (62 %). Figure of 8 sling had the modal treatment (50.2 %) while surgical intervention was the least (5.1 %). Conclusion. Fractures of clavicle are a common presentation to the orthopaedic surgeon following trauma or birth injuries. Commonest type is Alman class 1 and conservative management most commonly done, however surgical option needs to be better explored