Clavicle Fracture Non-Union in a 3-Year-Old Child: A Case Report and Literature Review.

INTRODUCTION

Clavicle fractures are common in children, representing 7-15% of pediatric fractures, typically healing with conservative management. Non-union is exceedingly rare, especially in children under 3 years of age.

CASE REPORT: We report a case of a 3-year-old male with traumatic midshaft clavicle fracture non-union, presenting 2 years post-injury with persistent pain, swelling, deformity, and restricted shoulder function. Radiographs revealed a hypertrophic non-union with significant displacement and 2 cm shortening. The patient was managed surgically with open reduction, internal fixation using a mini-fragment plate and screws, and autogenous bone grafting.

OUTCOME: Progressive callus formation and complete osseous union were confirmed radiologically by 12 weeks. At final follow-up, the child had a full, pain-free range of motion and no residual deformity, returning to normal activities.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights that clavicle non-union, although rare, can occur even in toddlers. Surgical management with plate fixation and bone grafting can yield excellent outcomes. Vigilant follow-up of displaced pediatric clavicle fractures is essential to detect and manage this uncommon complication.