The clavicle (collarbone) is a long S-shaped bone that connects the sternum to the acromion—a bony process—of the scapula (shoulder blade). These bones are part of the shoulder girdle, which also includes the sternum. The clavicle articulates with the sternum at the sternoclavicular (SC) joint. The SC joint serves as the only bony articulation between the upper extremity (arm) and the axial skeleton (head and trunk); therefore, considerable force is transmitted across the joint. The clavicle also protects neurovascular structures that pass behind it en route to the upper limbs.
Fractures of the clavicle are fairly common and account for about 5% of all adult fractures. Most clavicle fractures result from falling on the shoulder or an outstretched arm.
