Additional fixation using a metal plate with bioresorbable screws and wires for robinson type 2B clavicle fracture

Abstract

Simple clavicle shaft fracture typically achieves satisfactory union after treatment and does not result in complication with conservative treatment. Non-union or malunion can occur in displaced clavicle fractures or comminuted shaft fractures. Treatment of displaced comminuted clavicle shaft fractures is performed by holding together the free fragments with interfragmentary screws or wires and fixing them to the clavicle with a plate. Therefore, we performed interfragmentary fixation using open reduction and internal fixation with bioresorbable screws (Mg-Ca alloy, Resomet Bioresorbable bone screw; U&I Corp.) and bioresorbable wires (Mg-Ca alloy, Resomet Bioresorbable K-wire and pin, U&I Corp.) for displaced comminuted clavicle fractures (Robinson type 2B) and additionally used a metal plate. We expected decreased irritation and infection due to absorption after surgery. We report four cases that were treated in this way.