Complications of clavicle fracture and acromioclavicular joint rupture. What the general surgeon should know.

Fractures of the clavicle and acute dislocations of the acromioclavicular joint are common seen in the emergency room. Displaced or comminuted clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular joint ruptures (types III-VI) are associated with complications, such as subclavian vessels injury, hemopneumothorax, scapula-thoracic dissociation or brachial plexus paresis. Herein we discuss the usually complications seen after these injuries and underline whatever a trauma surgeon should know in order to avoid fatal situations.