Shoulder injuries are common injuries that can cause dislocation and even fractures of the scapula, clavicle or humerus which altogether make up the shoulder anatomy.
Shoulder fractures are most often caused by a direct arm injury following a fall, collision or car accident, causing a fracture of the clavicle or of the upper part of the humerus. Fetal bone fractures are more commonly associated with chest injuries.
When should you have surgery?
The treatment of shoulder fractures depends on the degree of damage to the bones, and the bones involved in the injury. If it is a relatively small fracture, you can settle for an arm sling and rest, which will allow the bones to heal and recover.
On the other hand, if the injury caused a number of fractures or instability in the shoulder joint, the attending physician may recommend surgery to connect the bone parts together using metal fixators.
The course of the surgery
The course of surgery varies depending on the location and type of fracture that has developed. In most cases, the fracture parts are openly returned to their anatomical location, followed by internal fixation of the bone parts to each other, using plates, pins or metal screws. In particularly severe cases a replacement of the shoulder joint may be considered.
The surgery is performed under general or regional anesthesia.
Preparation for surgery
Prior to surgery, a thorough examination must be performed by an orthopedic specialist, and the preliminary examinations performed along with medical records must be examined.
In addition, should the surgery be under general anesthesia, a preliminary evaluation by an anesthesiologist must be performed. It is mandatory to be on a full food fast according to staff guidelines.
Healing and Recovery
In some cases, patients can be discharged home on the day of surgery. The recovery process usually lasts 6-12 weeks. For the first few weeks after surgery the hand is kept in a hanger to allow the start of proper recovery. After removing the arm sling, it is important to start performing rehabilitation and appropriate exercises, in accordance with the recommendation of the doctor and physiotherapist. It is usually possible to return to driving and routine activities with the arm sling removed, depending on the degree of pain and the course of recovery.
Possible complications
Most patients recover from surgery without significant complications, but these can occur in some cases and include local infection, bleeding, and damage to the nerves adjacent to the fracture.
Occasionally, there may be damage to the range of motion of the arm and shoulder. The bone itself may be damaged and necrosis may even develop as a result of damage from the surgical instrument to the bone structure or its blood supply. In rare cases the fracture does not heal properly and may result in further surgery.
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