S42.032 Displaced fracture of lateral end of left clavicle

Name of the Condition

• Displaced fracture of lateral end of left clavicle

Summary

A displaced fracture of the lateral end of the left clavicle is a break in the outer portion of the left collarbone where the bone fragments are misaligned. This type of fracture affects the left side and involves the lateral (outer) segment of the clavicle, which connects to the shoulder.

Causes

Direct trauma or impact to the shoulder, such as a fall, sports injury, or motor vehicle accident, is the primary cause. The force applied to the shoulder can result in a fracture at the lateral end of the clavicle.

Risk Factors

• Participation in contact sports or high-impact activities.
• Osteoporosis or weakened bone density.
• Age-related bone fragility, particularly in older adults.
• Previous shoulder or clavicle injuries.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness over the lateral clavicle.
• Swelling or bruising around the shoulder.
• Visible deformity or lump at the fracture site.
• Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder due to pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and deformity. X-rays are typically used to confirm the fracture and evaluate displacement. In some cases, additional imaging like CT or MRI may be ordered for detailed assessment.

Treatment Options

• Immobilization with a sling or brace to stabilize the fracture and promote healing.
• Pain management with medications or ice.
• Physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength after healing.
• Surgical intervention may be required for severe displacement or instability.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Most displaced fractures of the lateral clavicle heal with proper immobilization and time, though recovery may take several weeks. Follow-up appointments monitor healing progress, and physical therapy is often recommended to regain full function. Complications like nonunion or malunion are rare but possible.

Complications

• Nonunion (failure to heal properly).
• Malunion (healing in an incorrect position).
• Nerve or blood vessel damage near the fracture site.
• Chronic pain or limited shoulder mobility.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Use protective gear during contact sports.
• Maintain bone health with calcium and vitamin D.
• Avoid high-risk activities that increase fall or injury likelihood.
• Practice safe techniques in sports or physical activities.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, visible deformity, inability to move the arm, or signs of nerve damage (e.g., numbness, tingling). Follow up with a healthcare provider if pain worsens or does not improve with initial treatment.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the laterality (left) and displacement clearly in the medical record. Ensure the fracture is specified as "displaced" and the location is the lateral end of the clavicle. Include details about the mechanism of injury, imaging results, and treatment plan to support accurate coding.