Therapy and outcome of lateral clavicular fractures

Abstract

Fractures of the distal third of the clavicle tend to develop delayed union or nonunion when treated conservatively. Correct diagnosis of fracture instability and/or associated lesions of the ligamentous structures of the acromioclavicular joint is mandatory for adequate fracture treatment. When classical radiographs fail to demonstrate instability, stress roentgenographs of both shoulders are indicated. From 1985 to 1994, 66 adult patients with a fracture of the distal clavicle were treated at our institution. Fracture classification was performed according to Jäger/Breitner. Fractures were unstable in 36 cases (54.5%). An associated lesion of the acromioclavicular joint was present in 8 patients presenting with an unstable fracture. Fracture instability was due to an associated fracture of the coracoid process in two cases. Stable fractures were treated conservatively. Thirty-three unstable fractures were treated surgically. Plate fixation was performed when at least three screws could be placed in the distal fragment. When the distal fragment was small or associated with acromioclavicular joint involvement, it was stabilized by PDS banding of the clavicle to the coracoid process and reconstruction of the ligaments. Results were evaluated retrospectively by questionnaire, clinically and by radiological examination. Fifty patients (76%) were reexamined. The outcome was good or excellent in 96% of unstable fractures that had been treated surgically. Results after conservative treatment of unstable fractures (n = 3) were poor. Conservative treatment of stable fractures resulted in all cases in a good-to-excellent result. For fractures of the distal clavicle, good results can be achieved when the instability is recognized and adequately treated. The association of a distal clavicular fracture and an acromioclavicular ligament disruption should be added as a separate subtype in the existing classification of distal clavicular fractures. PDS banding is a valuable alternative for fractures with small peripheral fragment or associated acromioclavicular disruption.