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Promising results found for surgical treatment of displaced medial-end clavicle factures
Results from a minimum 12-month follow-up indicate surgical intervention of displaced medial-end clavicle fractures is safe and efficacious, and can lead to excellent function in adult and adolescent patients.
Researchers reviewed 27 patients with a median age 37 years who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for medial clavicle fractures. Of these patients, 24 had acute, displaced fractures and three patients required fixation for nonunion. Investigators performed preoperative CT scans and radiographs. In addition, data collected included patient age, sex and injury mechanism. Follow-ups were performed at 2 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months and 12 months and until full union was achieved. At 12 months, investigators determined DASH scores and noted any complications.
Results showed vehicular accidents were the most common mechanism of injury, followed by sporting injury. Investigators noted there were 20 adult fractures and seven physeal fractures. Surgical intervention for symptomatic nonunion was needed in three patients, and two patients needed fixation for a periprosthetic fracture located medial to the exiting plate. Overall, 19 patients had plate and screw fixation and the remaining patients had fixation with transosseous sutures.
Investigators noted no significant complications. At 12 months, the median DASH score was 0.4. There was a 100% union rate, and all patients obtained full range of shoulder motion at the latest follow-up. Although 71% of patients reported plate or wound irritation, researchers noted these symptoms were mild and three patients chose to have their hardware removed.‒ by Monica Jaramillo
Disclosures: The researchers reports no relevant financial disclosures.