Post-Surgery Issues with Right Clavicle: Pain and Concerns After Trauma

Postoperative issues related to the right clavicle?

I suffered a right clavicle fracture in a car accident on October 21 of this year.
After surgery, a hook-shaped plate was used for fixation.
Follow-up X-rays on November 15 and December 15 showed good results.
However, on December 20, during a company team-building activity, the surgical site was shaken.
Since then, I have experienced some pain in the surgical area when moving my right arm, especially when turning over in bed at night.
Is it possible that this pain is due to plate loosening or bone displacement?

Mr. Yan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/23

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics

Hello, there could be many reasons for this.
Generally, the hook plate is considered a removable internal fixation device.
While it is present in your body, it may cause some degree of impingement syndrome on your shoulder's rotator cuff.
Regarding your concerns about displacement or loosening, I believe it is essential to obtain imaging studies for confirmation.
Therefore, I recommend that you return to the clinic of the surgeon who performed your operation as soon as possible to inform them of your symptoms for an accurate assessment.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, thank you.

Reply Date: 2019/12/23

More Info

After undergoing surgery for a right clavicle fracture, it is not uncommon to experience pain and discomfort during the recovery process. The fact that you had a car accident on October 21, followed by surgical intervention and the placement of a plate for stabilization, indicates that your body is still healing from a significant trauma. The timeline you provided, with follow-up X-rays showing good results, suggests that the initial healing process was on track. However, the incident during your company event where the surgical site was shaken could potentially lead to complications.

Pain at the surgical site after such an event can arise from several factors. First, it is essential to consider that the area around the clavicle is quite sensitive, and any sudden movement or jarring can cause discomfort. This pain could be due to soft tissue irritation, inflammation, or even muscle strain around the surgical site. The clavicle is surrounded by muscles and ligaments that can become tense or irritated with sudden movements, leading to pain.

Regarding your concerns about the possibility of the plate loosening or the bone shifting, it is important to note that while these complications can occur, they are not the most common outcomes. Surgical plates are designed to provide stability to the fracture site, and if properly placed, they should remain secure during the healing process. However, if there was significant trauma to the area, it could potentially lead to issues such as hardware loosening or even a fracture nonunion, where the bone fails to heal properly.

If you are experiencing increased pain, especially during movements or at night when you are trying to sleep, it is crucial to consult with your orthopedic surgeon. They may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or possibly a CT scan, to assess the integrity of the plate and the alignment of the bone. It is also important to monitor for any signs of complications, such as swelling, redness, or warmth around the surgical site, which could indicate infection or other issues.

In the meantime, managing your pain with appropriate measures is essential. Resting the affected arm, applying ice to reduce swelling, and taking over-the-counter pain medications (as advised by your doctor) can help alleviate discomfort. Additionally, if you have been given specific rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy protocols, it is crucial to follow those guidelines closely to ensure proper healing.

In summary, while your concerns about the pain and potential complications following your clavicle surgery are valid, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by your healthcare provider to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Early intervention can help address any issues and facilitate a smoother recovery process. Remember, communication with your medical team is key to navigating post-surgical recovery effectively.

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