Shoulder Fracture
Have you fallen on your shoulder and are experiencing intense pain with inability to lift your arm? Shoulder fracture is a traumatic injury that can affect the clavicle, scapula or humeral head. In Tunisia, experienced orthopedists ensure the treatment of shoulder fractures with modern techniques (osteosynthesis, shoulder prosthesis) at competitive prices.
Shoulder Fracture: What is it?
Shoulder fracture is a break or crack in one of the bones that make up the shoulder joint:
- Clavicle: the bone connecting the sternum to the scapula.
- Scapula: the flat bone located at the back of the shoulder.
- Humeral head: the upper end of the arm bone.
Shoulder fractures often occur following a fall on the shoulder, a direct blow, a collision or a car accident.
Types of Shoulder Fractures
Shoulder fractures can affect different structures. Clavicle fracture is common in children and young adults. Humeral head fracture is common in elderly people. Scapula fracture is rare and associated with violent trauma. Glenoid fracture is a fracture of the articular cavity. Greater tuberosity fracture is a fracture of the major tuberosity.
Causes of Shoulder Fracture
Shoulder fractures have several causes. A fall on the shoulder or outstretched arm is the most common cause. A sports accident can cause direct impact or torsion. A road traffic accident is a cause of violent trauma. A direct blow to the shoulder is also a cause. Osteoporosis weakens bones in elderly people.
Symptoms of Shoulder Fracture
A shoulder fracture manifests with characteristic symptoms. Intense pain is localized to the shoulder. Significant swelling appears quickly. Bruising forms around the shoulder. Inability to lift the arm is common. Deformity is visible in case of clavicle fracture. Crepitus may be felt.
Diagnosis of Shoulder Fracture
Diagnosis of a shoulder fracture is based on several examinations. Clinical examination includes inspection and palpation. X-rays from front and side are performed. CT scan is used for complex humeral head fractures. MRI may look for associated rotator cuff injuries.
Treatment of Shoulder Fracture
Treatment depends on the type of fracture, its stability and the degree of displacement.
1. Orthopedic Treatment (non-surgical)
Conservative treatment is indicated for simple and stable fractures. Immobilization is performed with a shoulder immobilizer for the clavicle, or with a sling for the humeral head. Duration is 3 to 6 weeks. Radiological monitoring is provided with checks at 15 days and 1 month.
2. Surgical Treatment
Shoulder surgery is indicated for displaced, unstable or complex fractures. It consists of osteosynthesis to realign bone fragments. Stabilization is achieved with screws, plates, pins or nails. Shoulder prosthesis is used for complex fractures in elderly patients. The procedure is performed under general or locoregional anesthesia. It lasts 1 to 2 hours. Hospitalization is 2 to 5 days.
Specific Surgical Techniques
Surgical options for shoulder fractures are varied. Clavicle osteosynthesis uses a screwed plate or pins. Humeral head osteosynthesis uses screws, plates or an intramedullary nail. Shoulder prosthesis, total or reverse, is used for complex fractures in elderly people. Arthroscopy is indicated in some cases for glenoid fractures.
Post-Operative Course and Recovery
Recovery after a shoulder fracture is well codified. Immobilization with a splint or sling is maintained for 3 to 6 weeks. Moderate pain is controlled with painkillers. Rehabilitation by physiotherapy begins after splint removal. Mobilization is progressive. Full recovery occurs in 3 to 6 months.
Rehabilitation Exercises
Rehabilitation after a shoulder fracture is essential. It begins with passive mobilization with pendulum exercises. Active assisted mobilization is then performed with the physiotherapist. Muscle strengthening of the deltoid and rotator cuff is performed. Finally, proprioceptive rehabilitation allows recovery of shoulder stability.
Risks and Complications
Several complications may occur after shoulder surgery. Infection is rare and prevented by antibiotic prophylaxis. Minimal bleeding resolves spontaneously. Brachial plexus nerve damage is rare. Joint stiffness, or frozen shoulder, is common. Heterotopic ossification may form. Non-union is rare. Prosthesis-related complications such as loosening or dislocation are possible.
Prices for Shoulder Fracture Treatment in Tunisia
Tunisia offers very competitive prices for shoulder fracture treatment. An orthopedic consultation costs between €80 and €120. Immobilization with a splint or sling costs from €150 to €300. Clavicle osteosynthesis is offered from €1,500 to €2,500. Humeral head osteosynthesis is available from €2,500 to €4,000. Shoulder prosthesis costs from €4,000 to €6,000. A rehabilitation package of 15 physiotherapy sessions is offered from €400 to €800.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shoulder Fracture
1How long is the hospital stay for a shoulder fracture in Tunisia?
Hospitalization is generally 2 to 5 days for a fracture requiring osteosynthesis or shoulder prosthesis. For simple fractures treated by immobilization, a 24-hour hospital stay may be sufficient.
2When can you move the shoulder after a fracture?
Immobilization lasts 3 to 6 weeks depending on the type of fracture. After removal of the splint, rehabilitation is started to progressively restore mobility. Full recovery of range of motion takes 2 to 4 months.
3What are the risks of shoulder fracture surgery?
Risks are low and include: infection, bleeding, nerve damage (brachial plexus), joint stiffness (frozen shoulder), heterotopic ossification, non-union, and prosthesis-related complications (loosening, dislocation).
4Can a shoulder fracture cause frozen shoulder?
Yes, adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) is a common complication after a shoulder fracture. Early rehabilitation is essential to prevent this complication. In some cases, corticosteroid injection may be necessary.
5When can you return to sports after a shoulder fracture?
Return to sports depends on the type of fracture and the activity practiced. For low-impact sports, return is possible after 3 months. For contact or throwing sports (tennis, handball), wait 4 to 6 months. Complete rehabilitation is essential.
6What is the difference between a clavicle fracture and a humeral head fracture?
Clavicle fracture affects the bone between the sternum and scapula, often treated by immobilization or osteosynthesis. Humeral head fracture affects the upper end of the humerus, often treated by osteosynthesis or shoulder prosthesis in elderly patients.
7Should osteosynthesis hardware be removed?
Removal of osteosynthesis hardware is optional and depends on symptoms. It is generally performed 12 to 18 months after surgery if the hardware is uncomfortable (pain, movement limitation). Removal is a short surgical procedure under local or general anesthesia.
Why Choose Tunisia for Shoulder Fracture Treatment?
Our orthopedists are experienced, trained in Europe and specialized in shoulder surgery. They use modern osteosynthesis techniques and latest-generation prostheses. Our prices are competitive, 40 to 60% cheaper than in Europe. Care is rapid with appointments within 48 hours. Personalized follow-up is provided pre and post-operatively.
In Conclusion
Shoulder fracture is a painful traumatic injury but perfectly treatable by orthopedic or surgical methods. In Tunisia, Tunisie Esthetic offers you quality care, performed by experienced orthopedists, with modern techniques (osteosynthesis, shoulder prosthesis) and competitive prices. Do not hesitate to contact us for a personalized and free quote.