Anterior-inferior plating of middle-third fractures of the clavicle

Abstract

Introduction Various techniques have been reported for the treatment of middle-third clavicle (collar bone) fractures. This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the results of anterior-inferior plating using a 3.5-mm reconstruction plate for the treatment of middle-third clavicle fractures. Patients and methods Twenty-six patients with middlethird clavicle fractures were treated with anterior-inferior plating. The indications for surgery included complete displacement, severe comminution, and marked shortening of the clavicle (>2 cm). Results The mean time to union was 14 weeks (range 8-20 weeks). At the time of latest follow-up, all of the patients had returned to their pre-injury activity level. The plates were removed in ten patients after the fractures healed. No patients required plate removal due to implantrelated problems. Conclusion Anterior-inferior plating is an eVective treatment modality for middle-third clavicle fractures, with few complications and early return of shoulder function. The procedure provides stable fixation, avoids risk to vital structures below the clavicle, and is associated with a low rate of implant-prominence problems© Springer-Verlag 2009.