Comparison between Accurate Anatomical Reduction and Unsuccessful Reduction with a Remaining Gap after Open Reduction and Plate Fixation of Midshaft Clavicle Fracture

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study is to compare the radiological and clinical outcomes after open reduction and plate fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures between patients who achieved successful anatomical reduction and those who had a remaining fracture gap even after open reduction and plate fixation, and were thus treated with additional demineralized bone matrix (DBM). Methods: This retrospective analysis was conducted on 56 consecutive patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation using a locking compression plate for acute displaced midshaft clavicle fractures, and who underwent radiographic and clinical outcome evaluations at least 6 months postoperatively. The outcomes between those who achieved perfect anatomical reduction without remnant gap (n=32) and those who had a remaining fracture gap even after open reduction and plate fixation treated with additional DBM (n=24) were evaluated. Results: There were no differences in the use of lag screws or wiring and operation time (all p>0.05) between those with and without remnant gap. No difference in the average radiological union time and clinical outcomes (satisfaction and Constant score) was observed between the two groups (all p>0.05). However, significantly faster union time was observed for AO type A fracture compared with other types (p=0.012), and traffic accident showed association with worse clinical outcomes compared with other causes of injury. Conclusions: Surgical outcome of midshaft clavicle fracture was more affected by initial fracture type and event, and re-reduction and re-fixation of the fracture to obtain a perfect anatomical reduction spending time appears to be unnecessary if rigid fixation is achieved.