Classification of clavicula fracture
In medicine, a clavicula fracture is classified according to Allman. This classification is primarily based on the location of the fracture. There are three groups of different localization: A classification can also be based on frequency:
- Group one describes a fracture in the middle third of the clavicle. Since this bone area is called the diaphysis, it is also called diaphyseal clavicle fracture;
- Fractures that manifest themselves in the outer or lateral third count in group 2;
- Group 3 ultimately includes all fractures in the medial, i.e. centrally located third;
- Fractures in group 1 occur very frequently (80%);
- Fractures in the medial or lateral third, i.e. group 2 (10-15%) and 3 (5-6%), occur less frequently.
Special features of clavicula fracture in the newborn
The clavicula fracture is considered the most common birth-related fracture in newborns. There are various reasons that can cause the infant’s clavicle to fracture during the birth process. One example would be if a shoulder is stuck in the birth canal.
The clavicula fracture is generally often associated with macrosomia. Newborns suffering from macrosomia have a birth weight of over 4350g. In most cases, the newborn infants are affected by a so-called greenwood fracture, a bending fracture.
This special and typical fracture is relatively asymptomatic and is often only noticed during a physical examination when callus, i.e. new bone tissue, has already formed at the fracture site. This callus formation sets in after about 7-10 days. An X-ray is usually not necessary, so that the newborn babies do not have to be exposed to X-rays.
If a clavicula fracture is accompanied by a simultaneous dislocation, i.e. a displacement of the broken bone fragments, the pain symptoms are more pronounced. The pain manifests itself as pressure and movement pain. Typically, newborns have asymmetrical spontaneous motor skills.
As soon as the clavicula fracture is accompanied by a dislocation, an x-ray should be taken. In general, such clavicula fractures heal in newborns without major therapeutic measures. An exception is the dislocated clavicula fracture, which may require surgical treatment.
Otherwise the parents are only advised to ensure that the arm of the affected side is moved as little as possible and if so, only very carefully. In this way, the clavicula fracture usually heals without complications in newborns.
