Clavicle

Clavicle

Also known as the collarbone.

Ends of the clavicle

Medial (sternal) end and lateral (acromial) end.

Medial clavicle connection

Connects to the sternum.

Joint between clavicle and sternum

Sternoclavicular (SC) joint.

Lateral clavicle connection

Connects to the acromion of the scapula.

Joint between clavicle and acromion

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint.

Major function of the clavicle

Acts as a strut that holds the shoulder away from the chest and allows arm movement.

Structures underneath/behind the clavicle

Subclavian artery, subclavian vein, and brachial plexus.

Common site for clavicle fractures

Middle third (midshaft).

Muscle that pulls medial clavicle fracture fragment upward

Sternocleidomastoid (SCM).

Coracoclavicular (CC) ligament connection

Connects the coracoid to the clavicle.

Parts of the CC ligament

Conoid and trapezoid.

ORIF

Open reduction internal fixation.

Purpose of ORIF in clavicle fractures

Realigns the fracture and stabilizes it with hardware.

Structures to protect during clavicle surgery

Subclavian vessels and brachial plexus.

AC separation types usually treated nonoperatively

Types I and II.

AC separation type that is a gray area for treatment

Type III.

AC separation types that usually require surgery

Types IV, V, and VI.

More dangerous SC joint dislocation

Posterior dislocation.

Risk of posterior SC dislocation

It can injure important structures behind the clavicle.

Start of clavicle ossification

Very early; it is one of the first bones to begin ossification.

Completion of clavicle ossification

Around age 20–25.