Epidemiological changes in clavicle fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic: a six-year analysis from a large single-center cohort
Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, vol.21, no.1, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 21 Issue: 1
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1186/s13018-025-06634-x
- Journal Name: Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Directory of Open Access Journals
- Keywords: Clavicle fracture, Collarbone, Conservative treatment, COVID-19, Epidemiology, Lockdown, Operative treatment, Pandemic, Upper extremity
- Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the epidemiological characteristics of clavicle fractures in a high-volume trauma center over a six-year period and to compare trauma mechanisms and management patterns before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A retrospective review of 1500 consecutive clavicle fracture cases treated at a level-one trauma center between January 2016 and December 2021 was conducted. Demographic characteristics, fracture classification, trauma mechanisms, and treatment modalities were analyzed. Comparisons were made between the pre-pandemic period (2016–March 2020) and the pandemic period (March 2020–2021). Results: The cohort consisted predominantly of young males (68.5%, median age: 21.7 years). Midshaft fractures were most common (79.3%). During the pandemic, trauma mechanisms changed significantly, with a marked decrease in sports-related injuries (34.3% to 13.4%) and an increase in simple falls (46.0% to 62.9%) and high-energy trauma (19.7% to 23.7%) (p < 0.001). Despite these epidemiological shifts, the proportion of surgically treated fractures remained unchanged (8.7% pre-pandemic vs. 8.1% during the pandemic, p > 0.05). No significant differences were observed in fracture type or associated injuries between periods. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with substantial changes in the epidemiology of clavicle fractures, particularly in trauma mechanisms, but did not affect the rate of operative versus non-operative management. These findings suggest that while societal restrictions altered injury patterns, clinical decision-making for clavicle fracture treatment remained stable. Level of evidence: III (Retrospective comparative study).