Clavicle Fractures and the Role of Surgical Pins

Clavicle issues and steel pins?

On July 26, I fell off my bicycle and fractured my left clavicle.
I underwent surgery on July 27, where a plate covered by national health insurance was used, as I had a comminuted fracture of the clavicle.
It has been five months since the surgery, but I feel that the sensation of my clavicle is different from what it was immediately after the operation.
It seems like there are two screws protruding.
I am currently a 13-year-old student in the second year of junior high school, and I had the surgery on the first day of winter break.
However, I still have to wait a long time, and I have a habit of playing basketball.
Could this be the reason why the screws are protruding? Assuming the surgery was on April 6 and I have an overnight camping trip on April 6 and 7 that includes rock climbing and bungee jumping activities, can I participate in these activities? I really want to experience them.

Mr. Zheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/27

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Even if a fracture has healed and the bone screws have just been removed, it is still not suitable to engage in vigorous exercise for a period of time.
This is because the areas where the screws were inserted have holes, which represent weak points in the bone.
It is necessary to wait for three to six months for the holes to be filled with new bone tissue and for the bone to regain sufficient strength to ensure safety.
Only then will engaging in vigorous activities be less likely to result in a re-fracture of the clavicle.

Reply Date: 2016/12/27

More Info

Clavicle fractures, particularly those that are comminuted (or fragmented), can be quite complex and often require surgical intervention to ensure proper healing and restoration of function. In your case, it sounds like you underwent surgery to stabilize your fractured clavicle using a plate and screws, which is a common approach for such injuries.
After surgery, it is not unusual for patients to feel a difference in the way their clavicle feels over time. The presence of hardware, such as screws or plates, can sometimes lead to sensations of prominence or discomfort as the surrounding tissues heal. If you are feeling what seems to be two screws protruding, it is essential to consult your orthopedic surgeon. They can assess whether this is normal or if it requires further intervention.
Regarding your concerns about physical activities such as basketball, rock climbing, and high-altitude jumping shortly after your surgery, it is crucial to approach these activities with caution. Generally, after a clavicle fracture, especially one that has been surgically repaired, doctors recommend a period of rest and rehabilitation before returning to high-impact sports. This is to ensure that the bone heals adequately and to prevent complications such as hardware failure or re-injury.

Typically, the timeline for returning to sports can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the fracture, the type of surgical intervention, and your overall healing progress. Most orthopedic surgeons will advise waiting at least 6 to 12 weeks post-surgery before engaging in activities that put significant stress on the shoulder. Since you are only five months post-surgery, it is likely that your doctor would recommend avoiding high-impact activities until you have fully healed and received clearance.

Engaging in activities like rock climbing or high-altitude jumping too soon can increase the risk of complications, including the potential for the screws or plate to loosen or for the bone to not heal properly. It is essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding rehabilitation exercises and gradually increasing your activity level.
In summary, while it is understandable that you want to participate in activities that you enjoy, your health and safety should come first. Always consult with your orthopedic surgeon before resuming any physical activities, especially those that could put stress on your healing clavicle. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help you determine the best course of action for a safe return to sports.

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