Fractures - Clavicle, Shoulder, Humerus, and Elbow
Fractures can be traumatic enough, let us help start your recovery
Eric Sanders
Orthopaedic Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon
Orthopedic surgeon specialized in treating the shoulder, scapula, clavicle, and elbow through advanced diagnostics and surgical care.
Understanding Fractures and Bone Injuries
In orthopedics, we often meet people on one of their worst days—when they’ve just suffered a fracture or injury. While it’s never easy to see someone in pain or deliver the news of a broken bone, it’s also the moment we have the opportunity to help them start healing.
A fracture is a break in a bone, usually caused by trauma. Fractures are described based on the pattern of the break and how far the bone fragments have shifted out of place. Some fractures occur in the middle of the bone, while others involve the ends of the bone near joints and cartilage. The location and severity of the fracture help guide whether surgery is needed or if non-surgical treatment is appropriate.
X-rays (radiographs) are typically used to evaluate the injury. Based on what we see, we’ll recommend the most effective treatment plan—whether that’s immobilization, physical therapy, or surgery.
For older adults, fractures often happen from simple, ground-level falls. These injuries are more than just broken bones—they’re often warning signs that a person’s bone health needs to be evaluated. With age, bone density naturally declines, especially if certain health habits or conditions are present.
In seniors, even small fractures can lead to a serious decline in independence and increase the risk of life-threatening complications. That’s why any patient who breaks a bone from a low-energy fall should be screened for osteoporosis and other bone health issues. Early recognition and treatment can prevent future fractures and improve long-term well-being.
Fracture repair commonly performed by Dr. Sanders:
Open reduction internal fixation of clavicle
Reconstruction of acromioclavicular joint
Open reduction internal fixation of scapula
Open reduction internal fixation of glenoid
Open reduction internal fixation of proximal humerus
Open reduction internal fixation of greater tuberosity
Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fracture
Open reduction internal fixation of humeral shaft
Open reduction internal fixation of distal humerus fracture
Total elbow arthroplasty for distal humerus fracture
Open reduction internal fixation of olecranon
Open reduction internal fixation of radial head fracture
Arthroplasty of radial head for fracture
Open reduction internal fixation of ulnar shaft
Open reduction internal fixation of both bone forearm fracture
