These fractures are usually sustained after high impact trauma. There are often other associated injuries. Surgery is not indicated in all cases. Various factors play a role. Special investigations such as Computed Tomography (CT) scans assist in assessing these fractures adequately.
Procedure duration: This is dependant on the extent of the fractures and therefore which bony fragments need to be placed back into position. These procedures can take up to 90 -120 minutes
Post operative rehabilitation: The patient will have to wear a sling for 6 weeks to allow bony union of the fracture. Stiffness post operatively is often a problem and therefore intensive physiotherapy is indicated in most of these cases.
