Treatment of comminuted mid-diaphyseal clavicle fractures by plate fixation using a bridging technique.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the healing and functional results of the treatment of comminuted mid-diaphyseal clavicular fractures using a bridging plate technique with minimal surgical dissection. This retrospective study included 23 patients (17 males and 6 females) with comminuted mid-diaphyseal clavicular fractures treated between 2004 and 2010. All fractures were operated on using a bridging plate technique with minimal surgical dissection. Patients were evaluated for function using the Constant shoulder scoring system. Mean follow-up was 22 (range: 6 to 68) months and healing occurred in all patients after a mean of 13 (range: 8 to 20) weeks. No implant failures or superficial or deep infections were observed. Iatrogenic neurovascular damage was not observed in any patient. Two patients had clavicle length discrepancy in comparison with the healthy side. Range of motion was normal in all patients. The mean Constant score was 89.6 (range: 72 to 100) points. The surgical treatment of mid-diaphyseal fractures with the bridging plate technique using locking plates provides good patient comfort, allows early mobility and has a low complication rate.