Shoulder fractures occur when external force fractures any of the three shoulder joint bones, often due to accidents or sports injuries. Recovery involves wearing a brace or sling for weeks, possibly requiring surgery, with full recovery taking a few months.
What is a Shoulder Fracture?
A shoulder fracture is the result of the three bones in the shoulder joint breaking, commonly stemming from traumatic incidents such as car accidents or sports injuries. This breakage can necessitate the use of a brace or sling for several weeks, and in more severe cases, surgical intervention may be required for bone repair.
The recovery process is gradual, spanning a few months, during which individuals may experience limitations in shoulder mobility. Rehabilitation efforts, including physiotherapy, play a crucial role in restoring full functionality to the shoulder and aiding in the overall recovery from a shoulder fracture.
Types of Shoulder Fracture
Shoulder fractures manifest in various forms, each impacting different components of the shoulder complex:
Proximal Humerus Fracture
A proximal humerus fracture refers to a break in the upper arm bone, specifically in the region close to the shoulder joint. This type of fracture can occur due to various traumatic events, such as falls or direct impacts to the shoulder area. The proximal humerus is a critical part of the shoulder, and fractures in this area can affect shoulder function and mobility.
Clavicle (Collarbone) Fracture
A clavicle fracture involves a break along the collarbone. The collarbone connects the sternum (breastbone) to the shoulder blade, providing structural support to the shoulder. Fractures in the clavicle commonly result from falls onto the shoulder, sports injuries, or accidents. These fractures can cause pain, swelling, and restricted shoulder movement.
Scapula Fracture
A scapula fracture occurs in the shoulder blade, which is the triangular-shaped bone on the upper back. Typically caused by high-impact injuries, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from a height, scapula fractures can vary in severity. Fractures in the scapula may impact the stability of the shoulder joint and require careful evaluation for proper management.
Acromion Fracture
An acromion fracture affects the bony prominence at the top of the shoulder known as the acromion process. This type of fracture can result from direct trauma or excessive force on the shoulder. The acromion plays a crucial role in the functioning of the shoulder, and fractures in this area may influence shoulder movement and stability.
Glenoid Fracture
A glenoid fracture involves the socket part of the shoulder joint. The glenoid is a shallow, concave surface where the head of the humerus fits, forming the shoulder joint. Fractures in the glenoid can occur in association with other shoulder injuries or as isolated incidents. These fractures may impact the articulation and stability of the shoulder joint, necessitating careful assessment and appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of Shoulder Fractures
Pain: Persistent, localized pain in the shoulder region, intensified with movement or pressure on the affected area.
Swelling: Swelling around the injured shoulder, often accompanied by bruising or discoloration.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty or inability to move the shoulder joint fully, experiencing stiffness or resistance.
Deformity: Visible changes in the shape or alignment of the shoulder, especially in cases of severe fractures.
Tenderness: Increased sensitivity and tenderness when touching or applying pressure to the fractured area.
Weakness: Weakened strength in the affected arm, making it challenging to perform routine activities.
Instability: A sense of instability or looseness in the shoulder joint, indicating potential ligament or socket damage.
Numbness or Tingling: Numbness or tingling sensations in the arm or hand, suggesting nerve involvement.
Difficulty with Daily Activities: Challenges in performing daily tasks, such as reaching overhead or lifting objects, due to pain and limited mobility.
Causes of Shoulder Fractures
Falls: Accidental falls, especially onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder, can lead to shoulder fractures.
Sports Injuries: High-impact sports or activities that involve forceful collisions or falls increase the risk of shoulder fractures.
Motor Vehicle Accidents: The impact experienced during car accidents or motorcycle crashes can cause significant trauma to the shoulder, resulting in fractures.
Direct Trauma: Sudden, forceful blows or impacts to the shoulder region, whether from accidents, collisions, or physical altercations, can lead to fractures.
Osteoporosis: Weakening of bones due to conditions like osteoporosis makes them more susceptible to fractures, including those in the shoulder.
Repetitive Stress: Overuse or repetitive stress on the shoulder joint, common in certain occupations or sports, can contribute to stress fractures over time.
Orthopedic Implants Used In Shoulder Fractures
Orthopedic shoulder implants play a crucial role in stabilizing and facilitating the healing of shoulder fractures. Common types of shoulder implants used in the treatment of fractures include:
Plate and Screws: Orthopedic plates made of metal, often titanium or stainless steel, are secured to the fractured bone with screws. These provide stability during the healing process.
Intramedullary Rods: Intramedullary rods, inserted into the medullary canal of the humerus, can provide internal support and stability for certain types of shoulder fractures.
Suture Anchors: Suture anchors are used to repair soft tissues, such as tendons or ligaments, to the bone. They are commonly employed in cases where the shoulder’s supporting structures are damaged.
Prosthetic Implants: In severe cases, particularly if the shoulder joint is affected, prosthetic implants may be used. These can involve partial or total shoulder replacement to restore joint function.
Locking Plates: Locking plates have screws that lock into the plate, providing added stability. They are often used in cases where conventional plates may not offer sufficient support.
Tension Bands: Tension bands involve the use of wires or cables to convert forces that would normally cause a bone to separate into compressive forces, aiding in fracture stabilization.
Shoulder Fracture Implants by Zealmax Ortho
1.Trauma Implants
LCP Clavicle Hook Plate 3.5 mm Right
The LCP Clavicle Hook Plate 3.5mm Right is utilized for stabilizing lateral clavicle fractures and acromioclavicular joint injuries, ensuring optimal implant placement and surgical efficacy. Its hook design features smooth edges, a posterior hook offset, and three distinct depths (12mm, 15mm, and 18mm). The rounded shaft minimizes soft tissue irritation, enhancing comfort. The plate, crafted from titanium and stainless steel, includes holes for intraoperative compression or angular stable locking. With a shaft profile sporting a rounded end and a 12° bend for simplified implant placement, this plate prioritizes precision and patient well-being in orthopedic interventions.
LCP Superior Anterior Clavicle Plate
The LCP Superior Anterior Clavicle Plate, an anatomically precontoured implant, delivers angular stability for lateral clavicle and clavicle shaft fractures. Crafted in stainless steel and titanium, it features a limited-contact shaft profile, ideal for fractures, malunions, nonunions, and osteotomies of the clavicle. Recon plate segments allow customizable contouring, while small diverging locking screws enhance screw purchase. The tapered plate tip enables percutaneous insertion, minimizing soft tissue irritation. With a rounded profile and flush-seated screw heads, its unique twisted design combines superior and anterior inferior plating advantages. Directional availability for left and right, offering versatility in orthopedic applications.
2.Shoulder Arthroscopy
2.8mm Ligament Anchor, PEEK Knotless
Zealmax Ortho currently offers the 2.8mm Ligament Anchor, PEEK Knotless, featuring a diameter of 2.8mm. This non-absorbable suture anchor, crafted from PEEK material, boasts a low coefficient of friction and exceptional resistance to abrasion. The anchor incorporates a built-in eyelet, eliminating the necessity for suture knots. This innovative technology not only streamlines the surgical process, reducing time requirements, but also mitigates potential tissue irritation associated with traditional knot stacks. Zealmax Ortho’s advancement ensures efficiency and minimizes postoperative complications, marking a significant enhancement in ligament anchoring procedures.
5.0mm Ligament Anchor, Titanium Loaded with 2 PC Fiber
The 5.0mm Ligament Anchor, a titanium orthopedic implant, serves the purpose of soft tissue fixation in orthopedic procedures. Engineered with high-strength titanium, it ensures durability and corrosion resistance. Loaded with 2 PC Fiber, a polyethylene material, this anchor provides enhanced strength and stability. Its design features a low profile to minimize tissue irritation, while self-drilling and self-tapping capabilities facilitate easy insertion. The anchor, with a diameter of 5.0mm, is adaptable to various surgical techniques, available in different lengths. Its applications encompass ligament reconstruction, tendon repair, fracture fixation, and joint stabilization, making it a versatile solution in orthopedic interventions.
Conclusion
As a prominent global leader, Zealmax Ortho specializes in crafting robust trauma fracture implants and shoulder arthroscopy implants, renowned for their strength. Our commitment lies in producing top-tier, enduring, and minimally invasive implants tailored for addressing shoulder fractures. Zealmax Ortho strives for ongoing innovation in soft tissue repair tools and techniques, empowering surgeons with expanded choices and enhanced versatility.
Our unwavering emphasis on reliability and safety is upheld through meticulous testing and verification procedures. We extend an invitation to potential global distributors to join our network, fostering a partnership founded on trust and mutual success.
