Surgical Fixation of Clavicle Shaft Fractures Using Superior Locking Plates With Lateral End Extension: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background Reports of high rates of non-union with poor functional outcomes following non-operative management of clavicle fractures have resulted in a shift of opinion towards the promising outcomes of surgical fixation. Varied implant choices with varying reports of success and associated complications have resulted in no definitive consensus on the choice of the ideal implant. Materials and Methods This is a retrospective study of clavicle shaft fractures stabilized using a Superior Clavicle Locking plate with lateral extension in 40 active adult patients, predominantly male, with an average age of 36.7 years. Results Post-operatively, early mobilization was initiated and on final discharge, there were no complaints of pain. All patients returned to their pre-injury levels of activity by four months, with all having achieved, essentially, a full range of movement by eight weeks post-operatively. Radiological union was observed in all patients by 5 months, except one. The QuickDASH scores of all the patients were less than 25 on discharge. Conclusion When surgical stabilization is considered in the management of active adults with clavicle shaft fractures, the superior clavicle locking plate with lateral extension appears to be a suitable implant by providing stable fixation lateral to the fracture, which is difficult with a regular locking plate.