Management of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in adolescent patients using intramedullary flexible nails: A case series

Abstract

IntroductionClavicle fractures are common injuries in adolescent patients. In this study we present our technique and results for treating non-comminuted displaced midshaft clavicle fractures using flexible intra medullary nails. MethodsA retrospective review of prospectively collected data using the electronic medical record was performed. Adolescent patients presenting to a level one pediatric trauma center with acute displaced non comminuted clavicular shaft fractures who were treated with intra medullary flexible nails were included in this study. ResultsSeven adolescent patients with non-comminuted displaced mid shaft clavicle fractures were treated with flexible nails over a period of five and half years with an average follow up time of 10 months. The average age was 14.6 years (range 14–16), and a 2mm nail was used in all cases. Closed reduction was obtained in five cases with only two cases needing open reduction to pass the nail. One patient had skin breakdown over the nail entry and had the nail removed in clinic two months after surgery, all other patients healed with no complication. Sports and full shoulder activity were allowed when radiographic healing was seen at an average 8 weeks. Implant removal was performed four of the seven patients. ConclusionFlexible intramedullary nailing is an effective minimally invasive method for the treatment of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in the adolescent population. The surgeon should be aware that a 2mm nail is likely the optimal diameter, and the nail is difficult to pass beyond the lateral 2–3cm of the distal segment due to canal narrowing, but passage further than this is not necessary to achieve stability and union. Following these pearls will allow the surgeon to successfully perform the procedure.