Clavicle fracture in Adult
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis
A clavicle fracture, or a break in the collarbone, presents with pain, swelling, and deformity of the clavicle region after an injury. It occurs as a result of direct trauma to the shoulder / clavicle area or a fall onto an outstretched arm. It is also possible to see a clavicle fracture in a patient with multiple traumas, such as from a high-energy motor vehicle crash. Most fractures will be middle third, followed by distal third (closer to shoulder).Clavicle fractures are usually seen in young, active adults. Pediatric patients can also get this injury and are managed the same as adults.
Codes
ICD10CM:S42.009A – Fracture of unspecified part of unspecified clavicle, initial encounter for closed fracture
S42.009B – Fracture of unspecified part of unspecified clavicle, initial encounter for open fracture
SNOMEDCT:
58150001 – Fracture of clavicle
Look For
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Shoulder dislocation (see shoulder injury)
- Scapula fracture
- Rib fracture
- Chest wall contusion
- Pneumothorax
- Proximal humerus fracture
- Sternoclavicular dislocation
- Pulmonary contusion
- Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury
- Brachial plexus injury
Best Tests
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Management Pearls
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Therapy
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References
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Last Reviewed:10/08/2018
Last Updated:02/13/2022
Last Updated:02/13/2022
Clavicle fracture in Adult