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16 Jul 2025
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Displaced Clavicle and Glenoid Fractures in a Motocross Rider


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Clinical Details

Clinical and radiological findings:  A young, active motocross rider presented with displaced fractures of the clavicle and glenoid, accompanied by rib fractures and a pneumothorax. The scapular body, neck, and majority of the glenoid remained in continuity, ruling out a "floating shoulder" diagnosis. Radiological assessment confirmed a displaced clavicle fracture and a B-type glenoid fracture on the same side.

Preoperative Plan

Planning remarks:  The preoperative plan involved surgical fixation of both the clavicle and glenoid fractures to optimize upper extremity strength and prevent potential biomechanical dysfunction or malunion-related complications. The clavicle was prioritized for fixation, followed by the glenoid. The modified Judet approach was selected for the glenoid repair.

Surgical Discussion

Patient positioning:  The patient was positioned supine for the clavicle fixation procedure. Two days later, the patient was repositioned laterally for the glenoid fixation.

Anatomical surgical approach:  For the clavicle fixation, a standard superior approach was utilized. For the glenoid, a modified Judet approach was employed, involving a posterior incision to access the infraglenoid and teres minor interval beneath the posterior deltoid muscle, ensuring careful avoidance of neurovascular structures.

Operative remarks: 

The surgeon emphasized the importance of understanding posterior shoulder girdle anatomy to avoid nerve and artery injury during the modified Judet approach. The decision to use this approach over a limited lateral border/neck approach was based on the surgeon's comfort level and experience with posterior shoulder anatomy.

Postoperative protocol:   Postoperative rehabilitation included early mobilization with a focus on maintaining range of motion and gradual strengthening exercises to support recovery and return to motocross activities.

Follow up:   Not specified

Orthopaedic implants used:   Orthopaedic implants used included a clavicle plate and screws for the clavicle fracture, and a glenoid plate with screws for the glenoid fracture fixation.

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