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Anatomy of the Clavicle and Its Articulations

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Clavicle Injuries

Abstract

The clavicle is a unique bone that connects the axial skeleton to the shoulder girdle via the sternum medially and the scapula laterally. Consequently, the clavicle functions as a strut and also provides an anchor point for glenohumeral, acromioclavicular, and scapulothoracic motion [1]. It also provides a mechanical barrier that protects crucial neurovascular structures. The clavicle is a mostly subcutaneous bone and, consequently, is vulnerable to traumatic injuries, such as fractures and separations. Additionally, it is subject to various gender, ethnic, and side-specific variations, which has implications for surgical repair of fractures and separations [2]. In the following chapter, we will attempt to expand on the basic and clinical anatomy of this complex bone.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Mercy Health—Cincinnati SportsMedicine and Orthopaedic Center, 10663 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH, 45242, USA

    Firas I. Kawtharani M.D. & Samer S. Hasan M.D., Ph.D.

Authors
  1. Firas I. Kawtharani M.D.
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  2. Samer S. Hasan M.D., Ph.D.
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Correspondence to Firas I. Kawtharani M.D. .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Mission Orthopedics, Mission Health, One Hospital Drive, Asheville, North Carolina, USA

    Gordon I. Groh

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Kawtharani, F.I., Hasan, S.S. (2018). Anatomy of the Clavicle and Its Articulations. In: Groh, G. (eds) Clavicle Injuries. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-52238-8_1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-52238-8_1

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-52236-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-52238-8

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