Collar bone (clavicle) fractures are fairly common, especially among active individuals. The clavicle serves as the attachment point for several muscles and provides support for the shoulder to optimize function. Recent orthopedic studies have found that non-operative management is usually acceptable, but can lead to disability or lack of healing in clavicle fractures that are poorly aligned. As a result of this research, more orthopedic surgeons are opting for surgical treatment of these injuries. This has led to faster return to activities and better overall function. (JBJS 2007; 89(1):1-10.) Furthermore, deformity of the clavicle after fracture can lead to cosmetically unacceptable results because of how close the clavicle is to the skin and how visible it is with certain types of clothing. This is especially true for women.
Unfortunately, the surgical treatment to realign the collar bone fractures often requires a large incision directly over the clavicle. It is also common for patients to have a numb area of skin around the surgical scar from nerve damage that is difficult to prevent. A thick metal plate is then used to stabilize the bone.(see image below) This plate is prominent, can be painful, and often requires removal.