For symptomatic neonates with complete clavicular fracture, which treatment is most appropriate?

• A. Early operative repair
• B. No treatment is necessary
• C. Securing the affected arm to the chest with a bandage for 7 to 10 days
• D. Short-term immobilization with a soft bandage

Answer: (C)

Neonatal clavicle fractures heal very well with conservative care, so the goal is gentle immobilization to minimize movement and pain while the bone mends. Securing the affected arm to the chest with a soft bandage for about 7 to 10 days provides stable, brief immobilization of the shoulder girdle, reducing stress at the fracture site and allowing natural healing to proceed without surgical intervention. This approach avoids the risks of surgery in newborns and aligns with the typical, quick recovery seen in these injuries. While some form of immobilization can be used, tying the arm to the chest for the specified duration specifically targets stabilization of the fractured area and is the standard of care for symptomatic neonates.