A collarbone infection, or osteomyelitis of the clavicle, is a serious bone infection that can occur after a fracture, surgery, or other injury to the collarbone. The infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and cause pain, swelling, redness, and fever. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and cause life-threatening complications.
Clavicular infections are often misdiagnosed due to their nonspecific symptoms and resemblance to other conditions like arthritis or bursitis. Delayed diagnosis can lead to complications like bone damage and sepsis, making it crucial for timely and accurate identification. Healthcare providers should always consider the possibility of a clavicular infection if a patient presents with persistent pain, swelling, and redness in the collarbone area, especially if accompanied by fever or drainage. Early detection and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.
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A misdiagnosed collarbone infection or a late diagnosis of a fracture may be grounds for a medical malpractice claim. If a doctor or other healthcare provider has been negligent in diagnosing a collarbone infection in you or a loved one, the Philadelphia missed collarbone infection attorneys at Thistle Law can help file a medical negligence claim and seek compensation for medical expenses, losses, and pain and suffering related to the misdiagnosis.
Symptoms of Collarbone Infection
The symptoms of a collarbone infection can vary depending on the severity of the condition.
Common symptoms include:
- Collarbone pain
- The collarbone is swollen
- Redness of the skin around the collarbone
- There is a lump on the collarbone
- Fever
- Chills
- Difficulty lifting the arm
- Drainage from the infected area
How is a clavicular infection diagnosed?
A clavicular infection is typically diagnosed based on physical examinations, imaging, and laboratory tests. The physical examination will assess pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the collarbone area. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, can help to identify the infection and assess its extent. Laboratory tests, such as blood cultures and white blood cell count, can also help to confirm the diagnosis.
Causes of a Collarbone Infection
A collarbone infection can be caused by several factors, including:
- Fracture of the collarbone: A collarbone fracture can create an opening in the bone that allows bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
- Surgery on the collarbone: Surgery on the collarbone can introduce bacteria into the area and ultimately cause an infection.
- Other injuries to the collarbone: Any collarbone injury can damage the skin and bones, making it easier for bacteria to slip in and cause a clavicle bone infection.
Risk Factors for Missed Collarbone Infection
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing a collarbone infection, including:
- Diabetes: People with diabetes have a weakened immune system, which makes them more susceptible to collarbone infections.
- Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, as a result of HIV/AIDS or chemotherapy treatment, are also at increased risk of infection.
- Recent surgery: People who have recently had surgery for a broken collarbone or clavicle fracture are at increased risk of infection because the surgical site is an open wound.
Treatment for Collarbone Infections
The treatment for a collarbone infection depends on the severity of the infection. Mild conditions may be treated with antibiotics alone. On the other hand, more severe infections may require surgery to remove the infected bone. In some cases, intravenous antibiotics may also be necessary.
How long does it take to recover from a clavicular infection?
In most cases, people can expect to recover within a few weeks. However, in others, recovery may take several months or even years.
What are the long-term effects of a clavicular infection?
Usually, there are no long-term effects of a clavicular infection. However, in severe cases, people may experience pain, deformity, or weakness in the affected area.
How a Missed Collarbone Infection Lawyer Can Help
If you have developed a clavicle bone infection due to the negligence of a medical professional, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. A missed collarbone infection lawyer can help you understand your legal options and pursue a claim against the responsible party.
At Thistle Law, we have a team of experienced missed clavicle infection attorneys who are committed to helping victims of medical malpractice receive the justice they deserve. We will work tirelessly to investigate your case and gather the evidence necessary to prove that the negligence of a medical professional caused your infection. We will negotiate with the insurance company to get you the maximum compensation possible.
If you have developed a collarbone infection and believe the negligence of a medical professional caused the condition or if you suspect it was misdiagnosed, contact the Philadelphia medical malpractice attorneys at Thistle Law to set up a free consultation by clicking here or calling 215-525-6824. We will review your case and provide you with an honest assessment of your legal options.