Clavicle fractures in children

Abstract:

Clavicle fractures are very common in children, and primary care physicians who carry out preventative measures, but also participate in monitoring treatment outcomes, should be familiar with the basic principles for the treatment of clavicle fractures in order to be able to discuss the injury with the children and parents, as well as assist in the treatment process. Most commonly, the injuries occur in the middle third of the clavicle and are bone fractures with minor displacement of fragments that do not require surgery. However, some fractures treated only with immobilisation show a greater occurence of delayed healing and pseudoarthroses. Surgical treatment is needed in cases of associated neurovascular injuries, open fractures and fractures with significant displacement of fragment, especially in adolescents and children actively participating in sports. Although indications for surgical treatments are not agreed, reports on surgically treated children are more common, and the groups are larger.. 

Key words:
children; clavicle; fracture