A clavicle can fracture in different ways. Physicians typically describe fractures based on their displacement, involvement with soft tissue, fracture pattern, and fragment level. Open fractures are among the most severe forms because the bone pierces the soft tissue of muscle and skin surrounding the bone. Doctors describe fractures where the bone remains connected as incomplete, while separated bones are complete fractures. A comminuted fracture occurs when the bone breaks into several pieces. Other fractures are less common for clavicle injuries, but still possible.

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