Treatment for Distal Clavicle Fracture
Treatment Algorithm Based on Fracture Stability
- The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends surgical repair for displaced distal clavicle fractures with disruption of the coracoclavicular (CC) ligament complex, while stable, non-displaced fractures can be managed conservatively with sling immobilization 1, 2
- Displaced lateral (distal) clavicle fractures with CC ligament disruption (Neer Type II and V) are inherently unstable and benefit from surgical repair 1, 2
- The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons consensus statement explicitly recommends sling immobilization over figure-of-eight bracing for acute clavicle fractures 1, 2
- Upright radiographs are superior to supine films for accurately assessing displacement 1, 4