UW Design 2013

Clavicle Support

Treatment for mid-clavicle fractures has fallen into a state of controversy. My design aims to fill a void in non-surgical treatment. Many patients, including myself, are now treated with the directions to “hold your shoulder back, to have good posture”. Historically, a healed fracture was defined by how well the bone fused back together but did not consider the effects of moderate clavicle shortening. Studies in the last two years show that clavicle shortening of 10% or more adversely affects shoulder kinematics and justify surgical treatment for cases that traditionally would not be considered for surgery. My design helps the patient hold the injured shoulder back, thus minimizing clavicle shortening and reducing the need for eventual surgical intervention.