A clavicle fracture is also known as a broken collarbone. A fairly common injury, most fractures occur when a fall onto the shoulder or an outstretched arm puts enough pressure on the bone that it snaps or breaks. This can happen in sports like mountain biking, football, lacrosse, hockey, biking, skateboarding, and skiing. A broken collarbone can be very painful and can make it hard to move your arm. Most clavicle fractures can be treated by wearing a sling to keep the arm and shoulder from moving while the bone heals. In some cases though where the bone moves too far out of place, Dr. Austin Chen, shoulder specialist serving the greater Boulder, Colorado communities, specializes in clavicle fracture fixation surgery, and may feel that it is the best course of action to realign the collarbone.
What is a clavicle fracture fixation surgery?
In a clavicle fracture fixation surgery, Dr. Chen uses specially-designed plates and pins to realign the collarbone so that the bone heals in its original position. This allows shoulder motion and strength to be restored.
What is the recovery from a clavicle fracture fixation surgery?
Following surgery, Dr. Chen will recommend a pain management and physical therapy regime. Physical therapy can be completed through the Boulder Centre for Orthopedics Physical Therapy Center, which offers all patients complete and seamless recovery care. It can take several months for your collarbone to heal, although most people can return to their regular activities within 3 months.
