American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

What can happen if the displaced end of a fractured clavicle injures the subclavian artery or brachial plexus?

1. Arm paralysis

2. Improper blood circulation

3. Nerve damage

4. All the above

The correct answer is: All the above

In the context of a fractured clavicle, particularly if the fracture is displaced, the ends of the bone can shift out of their normal positions. This misalignment can pose a significant risk to nearby structures, specifically the subclavian artery and the brachial plexus. When the displaced fracture margins impinge on the subclavian artery, it may result in improper blood circulation to the arm. The subclavian artery is crucial as it supplies blood to the upper limb, and any injury or compression can lead to diminished blood flow, resulting in ischemia and potential necrosis of tissues in the affected arm. Furthermore, the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that innervates the shoulder, arm, and hand, runs in close proximity to the clavicle. Damage to this nerve network can lead to arm paralysis or weakness, as the communication between the spinal cord and the arm muscles is disrupted. This can manifest as loss of motor function in the affected arm, rendering it unable to move normally. Given these considerations, the potential consequences of injuring the subclavian artery or brachial plexus after a clavicular fracture encompass all these outcomes: improper blood circulation, nerve damage, and resultant arm paralysis. Therefore, the