The clavicle or collarbone is characterized as a thin, long bone that joins the sternum in the chest to the shoulder. Even though the clavicle is considered as a usual location for a bone fracture, surgery is infrequently required in order to manage this injury. Individuals who need an intensive form of treatment must discuss with a doctor especially the potential side effects before this procedure is carried out. If you want to learn how to effectively manage damage to the clavicle, click here.
Stiffness of the shoulder
The development of scar tissue at the area surrounding the site of the clavicle surgery can lead to the stiffness of the shoulder as a side effect of the treatment. Those who are affected will experience difficulty in rotating or lifting the shoulder joint normally which makes it difficult for the individual to pick up objects after the surgery. In most cases, the shoulder stiffness can be limited among those who take part in physical therapy after the clavicle surgery. This is why physical therapy is vital after the surgery so that the individual can resume normal activities after some time.
Nerve or blood vessel injury
When a clavicle surgery is performed, the nerves as well as the blood vessels that border the site of injury can end up damaged. The damage on the nerves can lead to unusual sensations of burning, tingling or numbness within the area that was treated. Damage to the blood vessels can lead to widespread inflammation or bruising across the skin that covers the clavicle. It is important to note that these side effects of clavicle surgery are simply momentary and resolve without further medical treatment as the individual heals from the surgery.
Bleeding
Individuals who undergo clavicle surgery face a higher risk for bleeding. Severe bleeding due to clavicle surgery is considered uncommon but the individual would surely require additional surgery or a blood transfusion in order to resolve the complication.
Infection
It is important to note that some individuals can develop infection as a side effect of clavicle surgery. The symptoms of an infection include chills, fever, bone pain and unusual wound drainage. If any of these symptoms manifest, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible. The individual must consult a doctor since antibiotics might be required in order to treat the infection.
Wound healing issues
Clavicle surgery is usually required if the clavicle fracture breaks the skin or does not seem to completely heal on its own. In some cases, the surgery can result to bone or wound healing issues. The surgical wound that does not heal is at risk for infection as well as increasing the risk for scar formation. In case a clavicle fracture does not seem to heal after the surgery, an additional surgery is required to handle this side effect.