Study on shape memory alloy embracing fixator in treatment of the proximal clavicle fracture

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study was designed to investigate the application value of shape memory alloy embracing fixator in the treatment of proximal clavicle fracture. From April 2018 to October 2020, the fracture data of patients with proximal clavicle fractures treated with shape memory alloy embracing fixator were retrospectively analyzed, including 12 males and 8 females. The age of patients ranged from 34 to 66 years (mean, 43.4 years). According to Craig’s classification, the patients were divided into the following groups: type CII (eight cases), type CIII (five cases), type CⅤ (seven cases), all of which were closed fractures without nerve or vascular injury. The fracture healing time and postoperative complications were observed, and the shoulder joint function was evaluated by Constant score. All patients were followed up for 13–19 months (average 15.6 months). The clavicle radiographs showed that all the 20 patients had bone union, and the fracture union time was 6–10 months (average 7.2 months). There were no complications such as internal fixation fracture and displacement. According to the Constant criterion, 13 cases were excellent and 5 cases were fair and 1 case was good. The treatment of proximal clavicle fracture with shape memory alloy embracing fixator is an effective treatment method with simple operation with satisfactory fixation effect and low complication rate, which is worthy of being widely used in clinical practice.