why is cutting the clavicle bad

2 min read 01-03-2025

The clavicle, or collarbone, is a vital bone supporting the shoulder girdle. Damaging it, whether through fracture, surgery, or other injury, has serious implications. This article explores why cutting the clavicle—or more accurately, surgically altering or removing it—is generally considered a drastic measure with significant negative consequences.

Understanding the Clavicle's Function

Before delving into the risks, it's crucial to understand the clavicle's role. This S-shaped bone acts as a crucial strut, connecting the sternum (breastbone) to the scapula (shoulder blade). Its primary functions include:

Supporting the shoulder: The clavicle provides structural support for the shoulder joint, allowing for a wide range of motion.
Transmitting forces: It acts as a shock absorber, transferring forces from the arm to the axial skeleton (trunk).
Protecting underlying structures: It helps protect vital blood vessels and nerves in the neck and shoulder region.

Risks and Consequences of Clavicle Removal or Severely Damaging It

Surgical removal of the clavicle (cleidotomy) or severe damage to it carries several potential risks and negative consequences, which can vary in severity depending on the extent of the injury and individual factors. These include:

1. Shoulder Instability and Weakness

Severely damaging or removing the clavicle disrupts the structural integrity of the shoulder girdle. This leads to instability, making the shoulder joint prone to dislocations and subluxations (partial dislocations). Weakness in the shoulder muscles is also common due to the loss of support and altered mechanics.

2. Impaired Shoulder Movement and Function

The loss of the clavicle significantly limits the shoulder's range of motion. Simple tasks like lifting objects overhead become challenging or impossible. Fine motor skills that rely on precise shoulder movements are severely hampered.

3. Pain and Discomfort

Cutting the clavicle can lead to chronic pain in the shoulder and neck region. The pain stems from the instability of the joint, muscle strain due to compensatory movements, and nerve irritation.

4. Increased Risk of Injury

With the compromised support structure, the risk of further injuries to the shoulder joint, rotator cuff muscles, and surrounding structures increases significantly. Repetitive strain injuries become more likely.

5. Cosmetic Changes

The absence of a clavicle causes a noticeable change in shoulder appearance, creating a sunken or deformed look. This can have significant psychological effects on a person.

6. Nerve Damage

Surgery in this area carries the risk of damaging the brachial plexus, a network of nerves supplying the arm and shoulder. This can lead to loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and paralysis.

7. Complications Related to the Surgical Procedure

As with any major surgery, there are potential risks associated with a clavicle removal or significant modification procedure. These include infection, bleeding, and an adverse reaction to anesthesia.

When might Clavicle Surgery be Considered?

While generally avoided, clavicle resection might be considered in very specific, extreme cases, such as:

Severe trauma: In cases of severe injury where the clavicle is beyond repair and impedes vital functions or poses a threat to life.
Certain cancers: In some cases, a portion of the clavicle might need to be removed as part of cancer treatment.

Even in these situations, the decision is carefully weighed against the potential risks and benefits. Alternatives are explored before resorting to clavicle surgery.

Conclusion

Cutting the clavicle is a drastic measure with potentially serious long-term consequences. Its vital role in shoulder support, stability, and overall function highlights the detrimental effects of its removal or significant damage. The risks of instability, pain, impaired movement, and other complications far outweigh the benefits in most cases. It's crucial to seek expert medical advice before considering any surgical intervention involving the clavicle.