Clavicle fixation
Open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) for a broken collarbone
Clavicle reduction and fixation is a surgical procedure to stabilise a broken collar bone, helping it to heal correctly
Do I need surgery for a broken collarbone?
Need to know
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What happens during clavical fixation? icon plus
Surgery to repair a fractured collarbone is performed under general anaesthetic, meaning you'll be asleep throughout the procedure. A nerve block may also be used to numb the area and minimise your discomfort when you wake up after surgery.
Your surgeon will make a cut along your collarbone to realign the fractured bone. They will use a metal plate and screws to reconnect the collarbone and hold it in place as it heals. They may need to remove some bone fragments to help the fractured bone fuse in the correct position. They will then close the cut with stitches and stabilise your arm in a sling. -
How to prepare for surgery icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. You may have an X-ray taken before the procedure to help your consultant plan the best approach for your surgery.
They will let you know what to expect and how to prepare, including how long you should avoid eating and drinking beforehand. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
After surgery icon plus
You should be able to go home the same day as your procedure. You'll need to wear the sling for several weeks afterwards and it usually takes up to eight weeks to make a full recovery.
Your consultant will let you know what to expect and how to care for your collarbone as it heals, including advice on pain management and when you should be able to get back to your usual routine.
They may also recommend some gentle physiotherapy exercises to help you improve your flexibility and regain strength in your shoulders.
Our shoulder consultants
Our locations
From complex shoulder surgery to diagnostic scans, tests and procedures, we provide exceptional upper limb orthopaedic care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
Request a shoulder or elbow appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced upper limb consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344