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Fractured clavicle in the newborn
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| Definition: |
Fracture of the newborn's clavicle during difficult vaginal deliveries.
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| Alternative Names: |
Fractured collar bone
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
| This condition is fairly common during difficult vaginal deliveries. A clavicle fracture can occur either during difficult delivery of the shoulders in a vertex (head first) delivery or during breech (feet first) delivery when the arms are extended above the head. |
| Symptoms: |
| There is generally decreased movement of the arm on the side with the fractured clavicle and pain when lifting the baby under the arms. Occasionally, the fracture can be felt with the fingers, but more often there is no palpable evidence of abnormality. Within a few weeks a hard lump comprised of the healing bone (callus) may develop over the site of the fracture and may be the only indication that the newborn had a fractured clavicle. |
| Treatment: |
| Generally, there is no treatment other than lifting the child gently to prevent discomfort. Occasionally the arm on the affected side may be immobilized. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Full recovery occurs without treatment. |
| Complications: |
| There are usually no complications. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your baby acts uncomfortable when you lift him or her. |
| Prevention: |
| There may be no way to prevent a fractured clavicle during a difficult delivery. |
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Review Date: 9/1/2001
Reviewed By: David M. Scher, M.D., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, NYU-Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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