The Final Word.
10 months post op. Today I went back to see my orthopedic surgeon Dr. Veillette.
The purpose of this appointment was mainly for scheduling another surgery if I wanted. In my head, I was still contemplating on whether or not I should get my ’9cm, low-profile, pre-contoured, titanium Smith + Nephew clavicular plate and 9 screws’ removed. My gut said ‘No’ but I wanted to discuss it further just to make sure I’m making an informed decision that I won’t regret in the future.
I’ve got my full range of motion back, am able to lift heavy weights, have not been compromised in any way, and have not been experiencing much pain aside from if and when I happen to put weight on it or wear a messenger bag…and, I can still feel the hardware beneath my skin. Nothing major and life is good. The question: is it worth the risk of infection, a possible numb patch that may not reduce, and another scar? I don’t think so.
I was reassured that if kept, the plate will not deteriorate over time and was told that only 5% of his patients actually get the plate taken out. That’s a pretty small percentage. Plus, the only reason why one would take it out would be if the plate is uncomfortable (ie: acts up in cold weather), causes pain, or somehow comes loose (haha, and I doubt I’d have any problems with that esp since I have 9 screws!).
With that said, I have decided to keep my Titanium plate and live happily as a bionic girl. Finally, my clavicle adventure concludes 
Thanks everyone for the kind words, support and for following me on my journey.
Dr. Veillette, if you’re reading this, thanks so much for everything – You’re the BEST! None of this would’ve been possible if it weren’t for the ORIF surgery. I’m extremely thankful to be back stronger and able to continue being athletic. Couldn’t have asked for much more than that! For anyone with shoulder issues and broken clavicles, you have my highest recommendation.
Congratulations on the end of the Clavicade! Hopefully it WON’T be repeated, nor anything comparable. It’s also good to hear that you’ve opted to avoid further surgery, as that would have resulted in another period of downtime and probably some rehab as well. If you’re now bionic, however, this could well mean that you’ll progress from jumping over benches to leaping tall buildings at a single bound.
Haha! Thanks for your kind words Rick! Yes, this is definitely the end of the Clavicade, and there will be no sequels or remakes hereafter. Leaping tall buildings? Who knows. I’m sure being bionic will have its perks, like superhuman strength and being able to tell people that I’m one part titanium among other things
You’re an inspiration. Good to hear you’re back full force. I’m going to be getting my clavicle repaired next month. I hope I have as much success as you did! It will be good to be able to hit the weights again.
In light of your new Bionic and Titanium status, please let us know if The Six Million Dollar Man and Iron Man send you flowers!@Estella
Thanks for posting all this and glad you are doing so well. I too broke my left clavicle- 7 months ago- had a pin put in- which did not work- and so am getting a plate in 2 weeks. I am apprehensive but like you- just want to get back on track with my life. Your account is well written and positive, and I am glad to have read it. Stay well. Lyn
Hi Lyn, Thanks for reading. I’m glad you found the information useful. Sorry to hear about the pin not working. I think you’ll be happy with the plate though – it should hold the clavicle in place much better. I wish you all the best with the surgery and a speedy recovery! Take care. Estella.
Hi Estella,
I enjoyed reading your collar bone adventures. I, too, broke my right collar bone (January 18, 2009), and waited 6 weeks before realizing I had to travel to Houston, Texas, to have a titanium plate and 4 screws put it. Best thing I ever did!! I am finishing physical therapy, and will be looking forward to building my arm muscles again.
It’s great to see you lifting those weights like you do! Keep up the great workouts and stay safe! : ) Julie
@Julie Tudor
Thanks for your kind words, Julie! That’s great to hear you’re doing so well. Yup I think it was the best decision I made too. It’d just be wrong to be walking around with broken bones and a shortened clavicle
From one bionic girl to another – May you heal fast & come back stronger!