Name of the Procedure:

Partial Claviculectomy
Common Names: Partial Removal of the Clavicle

Summary

A partial claviculectomy is a surgical procedure where a portion of the clavicle (collarbone) is removed. This surgery is typically performed to relieve pain or dysfunction associated with certain medical conditions impacting the clavicle.

Purpose

The procedure addresses conditions such as chronic pain, arthritis, or structural damage to the clavicle. The primary goal is to alleviate pain, improve shoulder function, and enhance the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Persistent clavicle pain unresponsive to conservative treatments
• Degenerative arthritis or osteoarthritis of the clavicle
• Clavicle fractures that have not healed properly (non-union or malunion)
• Tumors or cysts affecting the clavicle
• Infections in the clavicle

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours before the procedure
• Adjustments or stoppage of certain medications (as advised by the doctor)
• Pre-operative imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans to assess the clavicle
• Blood tests and physical examination to ensure the patient’s fitness for surgery

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the affected area of the clavicle.
3. Exposure and Removal: The surrounding tissues are carefully moved aside to expose the clavicle. The diseased or damaged part of the clavicle is then cut and removed.
4. Closure: The incision is then closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of the condition.

Setting

Partial claviculectomy is usually performed in a hospital operating room or a surgical center as an inpatient or outpatient procedure.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Operating room technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Nerve injury leading to numbness or weakness
• Shoulder instability
• Delayed healing or non-healing of the remaining clavicle
• Chronic pain

Benefits

• Significant pain relief
• Improvement in shoulder function
• Enhanced range of motion
• Improved quality of life, typically noticeable within weeks to months post-surgery

Recovery

• Post-operative pain management with medications
• Instructions for wound care to prevent infection
• Physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the shoulder
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for several weeks
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and progress

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, pain management, and corticosteroid injections
• Full claviculectomy (complete removal of the clavicle)
• Arthroscopic procedures if appropriate, providing a less invasive option

Patient Experience

Patients might feel sore and experience moderate pain at the incision site post-surgery, manageable with prescribed pain medications. Temporary swelling and bruising are also common. Comfort measures include rest, cold packs to reduce swelling, and supportive sling use as advised by the surgeon.