Outcome of plate and intramedullary fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures: A search for optimal surgical management

Abstract

Middle third clavicle fractures are one of the most common types of fractures especially in young adults. But management part is still under debate. In olden days most of the fractures managed by conservative methods by arm sling and figure of eight bandage. But increasing demands, early mobilization of patients and anatomical fixation nowadays these fractures are managed by Open Reduction and Internal Fixation with plates and screws and Closed Reduction and Internal Fixation with Titanium Elastic Nailing System (TENS).In our study 15 patients treated with ORIF with plating, another 15 patients treated with CRIF/ORIF with elastic nailing. Though each procedure having advantages and disadvantages the functional outcome of surgical methods found to be better when compared to conservative methods. Elastic nailing not indicated for comminuted fractures and fracture nonunion. The advantage of intra medullary fixation and not disturbing the fracture hematoma are additive features of closed nailing.