Failure of an Intramedullary Fixation Device for a Midshaft Clavicle Fracture

Abstract

This case report describes failure of an intramedullary nail that occurred 10 weeks after screw implantation in a patient who initially presented with a notably displaced midshaft fracture. Failure occurred after radiographic evidence of appropriate fracture alignment and hardware placement with no identifiable preceding trigger. The patient subsequently underwent revision surgery with superiorly based plating and is recovering with no complications to date. This case report and lack of related research shows that this failure needs further exploration.