Open Clavicle Fracture: A Case Report

Open clavicle fractures are rare, accounting for only 1.8% of all fractures. This report describes a 37 year old male with an open Gustilo Anderson grade II midshaft clavicle fracture (Robinson type 2B1) caused by a wood cutting machine. He was hemodynamically stable but had an 8*6 cm wound with exposed clavicle. Initial emergency care included tetanus prophylaxis, intravenous antibiotics, and wound debridement. Definitive fixation was performed on day four using an 8 hole anatomical locking plate with screws. Postoperatively, progressive physiotherapy led to uneventful wound healing and good functional recovery. The case emphasizes that open clavicle fractures should be managed like open long bone fractures, with timely debridement, adequate antibiotics, and early surgical fixation, but simple arm pouch sling immobilization is sufficient until definitive fixation. This report contributes to the limited literature on open clavicle fracture management and supports operative stabilization for favorable outcomes in similar injuries.