Q. I am 43 and active. Last weekend I fell off my bike and landed on my shoulder. I heard a crack and had severe pain in my collarbone. I went to the emergency room and was told I suffered a broken collarbone. I was given a sling and referred to an orthopedic surgeon. The doctor said he would have to have surgery to repair the fracture. I have studied this injury and it seems that many patients with clavicle fractures can heal well without surgery. What do you think I should do?
HA. Clavicle fractures are very common injuries, particularly falling from a bicycle or motorcycle or being thrown to the ground while playing football. Traditionally, these fractures were allowed to heal in a sling with good results in many patients.
Recent studies, however, reveal better healing rates, improved motion and improved strength in those patients who have surgical repair of clavicle fractures.
Many factors enter into the decision process, including the age of the patient, the level of activity, the degree of displacement of the fracture, other associated injuries, and the right or left disability. Since you are unsure about your best option, you may want to get a second orthopedic opinion.
Dr. Harlan Selesnick is the team physician for the Miami Heat and director of the Miami Sports Medicine Fellowship, Doctors Hospital. Send your questions to HarlanS@baptisthealth.net
