Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeon
FRACTURES | LAS VEGAS
Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas, Nevada
The clavicle is the only bony connection between the shoulder girdle and the axial skeleton. It transmits forces from the arm to the trunk and maintains the proper width and position of the shoulder. Displaced midshaft clavicle fractures have historically been treated non-operatively, but surgical fixation is recommended for fractures with significant shortening, displacement, or comminution.
Dr. Andrew Lee at Nevada Spine Clinic and Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas evaluates each fracture individually to determine the most appropriate fixation strategy based on fracture pattern, bone quality, and patient goals.
Surgical fixation is recommended for significantly displaced clavicle fractures with more than two centimeters of shortening, fractures with multiple fragments, open fractures, and fractures in patients with high functional demands. Dr. Andrew Lee at Nevada Spine Clinic in Las Vegas evaluates each patient’s imaging and functional requirements before recommending surgery.
Dr. Andrew Lee fixes displaced clavicle fractures at Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas using anterior inferior plate fixation, which provides strong fixation while minimizing implant prominence. The fracture fragments are reduced to restore clavicle length and alignment, and a low-profile locking plate is applied. Early shoulder range of motion is encouraged following fixation.
Recovery depends on fracture severity, fixation achieved, and patient factors. Dr. Andrew Lee at Nevada Spine Clinic in Las Vegas provides individualized rehabilitation guidance to optimize bone healing and functional recovery.
Weight bearing restrictions and activity timelines are determined at follow-up appointments based on fracture healing progress on imaging.
Pain decreases progressively as healing occurs over six to twelve weeks. Functional recovery continues for three to six months following surgery. Dr. Lee monitors healing with imaging at regular follow-up visits.
Most patients return to independent daily activity within six to twelve weeks, with full recovery over three to six months depending on fracture complexity and patient factors.
No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.
Follow all wound care instructions at discharge. Avoid soaking the incision in water until cleared by Dr. Lee. Pat the wound dry after showering and apply a clean bandage.
Monitor the incision for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage and contact Nevada Spine Clinic immediately if any of these occur. Prescription refills require forty-eight hours advance notice.
Follow the specific weight bearing restrictions provided by Dr. Lee. These are individualized to your fracture pattern and the fixation achieved at surgery. Do not bear weight beyond prescribed limits until cleared at follow-up.
Contact Nevada Spine Clinic or go to the nearest emergency room for fever, sudden increase in pain, inability to bear weight as previously tolerated, or wound concerns.
No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.
Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas
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