Posttraumatic Pseudoarthrosis of a Clavicle Fracture in an 11-Year-Old Girl: A Case Report and Analysis

Abstract

Clavicular fractures are some of the most common bone injuries in the paediatric population, yet the rates of nonunion are very low under 18 years. To the best of our knowledge, posttraumatic nonunion of the clavicle in a paediatric population is rarely reported. We report the case of an 11-year-old girl who presented with a nondislocated fracture of the midshaft to the proximal third of the right clavicle. Initial conservative treatment by sling immobilization demonstrated radiologically confirmed healing at 3 months. However, at 1-year follow-up, she presented with painful nonunion. Diagnostic MRI and CT exams confirmed a pseudoarthrosis, requiring elective open reduction and internal fixation with the aid of an ipsilateral iliac crest bone graft.

Congenital Pseudarthrosis of the Clavicle Joint and its impact on sports participation – Description of 2 Cases: diagnosis and treatment

“…If an athlete undergoes surgery, it is important to remember that during the postoperative period, no physical activity will be permitted for an average of three months [14, 15,16]. It is also important to bear in mind that in athletes, due to the elevated risk of injury associated with their profession, the disease should be differentiated from posttraumatic pseudoarthrosis of the clavicle [17].…”

Pediatric Clavicle Fractures and Congenital Pseudarthrosis Unraveled

“…Outcomes after non-operative treatment are generally excellent; most patients do not experience any pain, discomfort or limited range of motion [ 59 ].…”