Bone Resorption of the Distal Clavicle

History  An abnormality of the distal left clavicle was identified on a routine chest film of a professional hockey player, and this was confirmed on a shoulder roentgenogram (Fig 1). He denied pain or weakness in the left arm.

Diagnosis  Traumatic osteolysis of the distal end of the clavicle.

Comment  The shoulder films (Fig 1 and 2) show resorption of the distal clavicle resulting in an increased distance between the clavicle and acromion. Bony fragments are present adjacent to the tapered distal clavicle (large arrow). The insertion of the acromioclavicular ligament is calcified from past trauma (small arrow).Traumatic osteolysis of the distal clavicle follows severe injury to the shoulder. It is seen in contact sports (rugby,¹ football,² hockey,³ and judo⁴) and in certain other occupations, but most frequently follows a fall^2,5 or motor vehicle accident.^2,6 The injury is reported infrequently; it is first