Clavicle Fracture and Thyroid Eye Disease: Treatment Concerns

What is the treatment for a clavicle fracture combined with thyroid eye disease?

I had a car accident on November 6th of this year, resulting in a fracture of my left clavicle.
After reviewing the X-ray, the doctor mentioned there was a crack, but surgery was not necessary.
I was advised to use a triangular sling for conservative treatment for four weeks.
Four weeks later, I no longer use the sling, but sometimes I hear a clicking sound from my left clavicle, which makes me a bit worried that it hasn't healed properly.
I am also undergoing steroid treatment for thyroid eye disease.
Could the steroids be affecting the healing of my bone? Thank you, doctor!

Kimi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/11

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics

A clavicle fracture may not heal within four weeks, and X-ray follow-up should be conducted every four weeks.
The use of steroids for thyroid enlargement could have significant effects.

Reply Date: 2015/12/11

More Info

Clavicle fractures are common injuries, particularly from falls or accidents, and they typically heal well with conservative treatment. In your case, the doctor has recommended a conservative approach with a triangular sling for four weeks, which is standard practice for non-displaced or minimally displaced fractures. After four weeks, it is common to experience some residual sounds or sensations in the area as the bone continues to heal. The "clicking" or "popping" sounds you hear from your clavicle may be due to the normal movement of the bones and surrounding tissues as they adjust during the healing process. However, if you experience significant pain, swelling, or any other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Regarding your concern about the impact of steroid treatment on bone healing, it is important to note that corticosteroids can indeed affect bone metabolism. Long-term use of steroids can lead to osteoporosis, which may impair the healing process of fractures. However, the short-term use of steroids, particularly for conditions like thyroid eye disease (TED), may not have a significant impact on bone healing. It is essential to balance the treatment of your thyroid condition with the management of your fracture. If you have concerns about your steroid use and its effects on your fracture healing, discussing this with your endocrinologist or primary care physician would be beneficial.

Thyroid eye disease, often associated with hyperthyroidism, can lead to various ocular symptoms, including proptosis (eye bulging), double vision, and discomfort. The treatment for TED can vary based on the severity of the disease and may include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, orbital decompression surgery, or other interventions. If your current treatment is not effectively managing your symptoms, it may be worthwhile to consult with an ophthalmologist who specializes in thyroid eye disease for a comprehensive evaluation and potential alternative treatments.

In summary, while the clicking sounds from your clavicle may be a normal part of the healing process, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Additionally, managing your thyroid eye disease effectively is crucial, and you should discuss any potential impacts of your current treatment regimen on your overall health and recovery with your medical team. Regular follow-ups and imaging studies, such as X-rays, may be necessary to ensure that your clavicle is healing properly and to address any complications that may arise.

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