Clavicular Fracture Associated with Life-Threatening Hemorrhage: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2016 Apr-Jun;6(2):e31. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.15.00193.

Abstract

Case: A sixty-four-year-old woman sustained a displaced midshaft clavicular fracture. Shortly after admission to the hospital, she developed symptoms of hypovolemic shock as well as neurologic compromise of the ipsilateral upper extremity. Her workup demonstrated a large periclavicular hematoma. She underwent surgical exploration, during which a subclavian artery laceration was identified and repaired.

Conclusion: This case serves as a reminder to the treating physician to maintain an appropriate index of suspicion for associated injuries when treating clavicular fractures.