Clavicle Fractures In Children Research Articles

Fractures around the shoulder in the skeletally immature: A scoping review.

Fractures around the shoulder girdle in children are mainly caused by sports accidents. The clavicle and the proximal humerus are most commonly involved. Both the clavicle and the proximal humerus have a remarkable potential for remodeling, which is why most of these fractures in children can be treated conservatively. However, the key is to understand when a child benefits from surgical management. Clear indications for surgery of these fractures are lacking. This review focuses on the available evidence on the management of clavicle and proximal humerus fractures in children. The only strict indications for surgery for diaphyseal clavicle fractures in children are open fractures, tenting of the skin with necrosis, associated neurovascular injury, or a floating shoulder. There is no evidence to argue for surgery of displaced clavicle fractures to prevent malunion since most malunions are asymptomatic. In the rare case of a symptomatic malunion of the clavicle in children, corrective osteosynthesis is a viable treatment option. For proximal humerus fractures in children, treatment is dictated by the patient's age (and thus remodeling potential) and the amount of fracture displacement. Under ten years of age, even severely displaced fractures can be treated conservatively. From the age of 13 and onwards, surgery has better outcomes for severely displaced (Neer types III and IV) fractures. Between 10 and 13 years of age, the indications for surgical treatment are less clear, with varying cut-off values of angulation (30-60 degrees) or displacement (1/3 - 2/3 shaft width) in the current literature.

Medial clavicle shaft fractures in children and adolescents: differences from adults and management.

Clavicle fractures are a common injury in the pediatric and adolescent population. Most fractures are located in the middle third of the clavicle. There has been no information in the literature regarding the management of extra-physeal medial clavicle shaft fractures in this population. The objective of this study is to evaluate demographic and injury characteristics, management options and clinical outcomes of medial clavicle fractures in children and adolescents and differentiate them from those in adults. A retrospective review was performed at a single institution to identify patients with medial clavicle shaft fractures. Radiographs, clinical features and patient-reported outcomes (QuickDASH) were analyzed. Eight patients were identified with medial clavicle fractures. Two fractures could not be diagnosed on anteroposterior radiographs. Both operative (four patients) and nonoperative (four patients) treatment had excellent radiographic and clinical outcomes, irrespective of initial displacement. Compared to high-energy and life-threatening injuries in adults, these fractures in children and adolescents were sports-related and isolated fractures. Conservative treatment should be considered for medial clavicle fractures in children and adolescents. These fractures are distinct from their adult counterparts and do not lead to increased morbidity or mortality.

Лечебная тактика при переломах ключицы у детей

Introduction One of the most common injuries in children is clavicle fractures. They account for up to 14 % of all pediatric bone injuries. Aim Comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of surgical and conservative methods of treating closed clavicle fractures in children. Materials and methods Between 2011 and 2018, 1,800 children with clavicle fractures referred to the traumatology and orthopedic department at the Children's Clinical Hospital No. 9 in Yekaterinburg. Most of them were treated conservatively, and 94 (5.2 %) children were hospitalized for surgical treatment. Depending on age and type of displacement, children received different conservative treatments, such as Deso dressing in children under two years old, figure-eight-bandage in children over two years of age. Surgical treatment was open reduction of fragments and fixation with either a Kirschner wire or a titanium elastic nail (TEN); titanium plates were used in several cases. For a comparative assessment of the results of the treatment methods for clavicle fractures, two groups of patients were formed. Results Shortening of consolidated clavicle was not observed in children of the main group treated surgically. In several cases, the elongation of the clavicle was revealed by no more than 1 cm. Patients in the comparison group showed shortening of the broken clavicle in three cases, no more than 1.3 cm. Conclusion After surgical treatment, the length of the shoulder girdle was fully restored; insignificant shortening after conservative treatment did not cause functional disorders.

Intermediate-Term Outcomes Following Operative and Nonoperative Management of Midshaft Clavicle Fractures in Children and Adolescents: Internal Fixation May Improve Outcomes.

Background:Although multiple prospective comparative studies exist for adults with midshaft clavicle fractures, few comparative studies exist in older children and adolescents. This study compares intermediate-term functional, pain, radiographic, and complication outcomes in children and adolescents with midshaft clavicle fractures treated operatively or nonoperatively.Methods:Children and adolescents who were 10 to 18 years of age with midshaft clavicle fractures treated from 2006 to 2017 were identified through electronic picture archiving and communication system (PACS) radiographic and chart review. Closed injuries with a minimum of 1 year from the time of the injury were included. Patients completed patient-reported outcome measures and a focused questionnaire. The primary outcome was the abbreviated Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (QuickDASH) score; the secondary outcomes included the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Activity Scale, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pain Interference (PI) and PROMIS Physical Function (PF) Upper Extremity (UE), Hospital for Special Surgery Pediatric Functional Activity Brief Scale (HSS Pedi-FABS), Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for Pain, and rates of implant removal, nonunion, and refracture. Univariate comparisons between the operatively treated group and the nonoperatively treated group were performed.Results:In this study, 302 patients were identified; of these, 79 patients (43 operatively treated and 36 nonoperatively treated) or their parent or legal guardian consented and the patients completed the study protocol. The mean age (and standard deviation) at the time of the injury was 16.0 ± 1.7 years for the operatively treated group and 13.5 ± 1.8 years for the nonoperatively treated group (p < 0.001). The median follow-up was 3.8 years. The patient-reported outcome scores were similar (p > 0.05 for all comparisons) between the operatively treated group and the nonoperatively treated group, even for patients at or near skeletal maturity and those with shortening of ≥15 mm or ≥100% translation. There were no nonunions. The refracture rate was 5% (2 of 43) for the operatively treated group and 3% (1 of 36) for the nonoperatively treated group (p = 1.00). There were 19% (8 of 43) who underwent implant removal. Responders were similar to nonresponders, other than female patients (p < 0.001) and surgically treated patients (p = 0.049) being more likely to respond.Conclusions:In the subset of this cohort who responded and completed the study, both operatively and nonoperatively treated patients had excellent functional and pain outcomes, similar refracture rates, and no nonunions. Even in widely displaced and translated fractures, and in those at or near skeletal maturity, outcomes were similar. Operative management should potentially be reserved for special circumstances. A prospective comparative study of older adolescents (female patients who are 14 to 18 years of age and male patients who are 16 to 20 years of age) with displaced midshaft clavicle fractures is warranted.Level of Evidence:Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Functional Outcomes of Clavicular Fractures Fixation in Adolescent Children

Background: Fractures of the clavicle are common in both adults and children. Recent studies in the treatment of adult fractures have indicated that improved outcomes are achieved after open reduction and internal fixation. The aim of this study was to conduct a retrospective study of the functional outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation of displaced clavicle fractures in adolescent children. Material and Methods: We analysed a retrospective case series of 28 adolescent children who had displaced fractures of the clavicle which were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. The rate of healing, radiographic outcomes, functional outcomes, and complications were looked at. Results: There were 28 children with an average age of 13.8 years (range 13-16 years) had their closed unilateral clavicle fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation. All the patients were boys. The right side was affected in 14 patients and the left in 14. There were 26 mid-shaft fractures and two lateral-end fracture. Patients were followed for an average of 12 months. There were no superficial or deep infections and all cases went on to clinical and radiological union. Twenty-four (86%) of children returned to unrestricted sporting activity. The mean QuickDASH score at 12 months was 3.24. Four patients had scar sensitivity, and four had plate prominence. Ten patients required metalwork removal. Conclusion: Historically, almost all clavicle fractures in children were treated non-operatively regardless of the displacement and the location of fractures, with variable outcomes. We conclude that open reduction and internal fixation of displaced clavicle shaft fractures in older children can be performed safely and gives predictable results especially with healing periods and functional outcomes.

A clinical study on role of surgical management of clavicle fractures in adults

Introduction: Current literature has clearly shown that the indications for surgical treatment of clavicle fractures in adults are expanding. Although clavicle fractures in children and adolescents have traditionally been treated non-operatively, surgical treatment of displaced clavicle fractures may be indicated in adults.Results: Excellent outcomes and rapid return to work can be achieved with surgical management of displaced clavicle fractures in the adults with high functional demands, similar to those of their adult counterparts. Complications include hardware irritation, screw loosening, pin migration, peri-incisional numbness, and refracture. Athletes and families must be counseled regarding complications and potential need for secondary surgery to remove hardware.Conclusion: The patients with a displaced, shortened, or comminuted clavicle fracture presents a unique, controversial dilemma for the surgeon. Earlier return to work, can be achieved with surgical management to restore length and alignment and may prevent malunion, nonunion, and poor outcomes.

Minimally invasive retrograde insertion of elastic intramedullary nails for displaced clavicle fractures in children

To study the application and effect of retrograde titanium elastic nails fixation for the treatment of displaced clavicle fracture in children under closed reduction. From January 2014 to November 2016, 26 children with displaced fractures of the clavicle were treated by closed reduction and retrograde inserted titanium elastic nails including 14 boys and 12 girls with an average age of 9.2 years old ranging from 7 to 14 years. Time from injury to operation was 2 to 7 days with an average of 2.8 days. Visual analogue score (VAS) was used to evaluate the main complaint pain in all patients before and 2 days after operation. The Neer score of shoulder function between affected side and healthy side at 2 months after operation were compared. All the 26 children were followed up for 6 to 12 months. All cases healed well without infection, broken nails or titanium elastic nails exit complications. All children achieved anatomical reduction, good bony union, and good recovery of shoulder joint activity. The average time of removing nail was 14 to 32(16.25±2.62)weeks. The pain VAS score was significantly relieved 2 days after operation (P<0.05). At 2 months after operation, the Neer score of shoulder joint was 98.46±1.07 in affected side and 98.58±1.10 in healthy side respectively, there was no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). Titanium elastic intramedullary nail fixation for the treatment of displaced clavicular fracture in children has the advantages of minimal invasion, no effect on skin beauty, rapid healing of fracture, good recovery of postoperative function, simple nailing and less complications.

Flexible intramedullary nailing versus nonoperative treatment for paediatric displaced midshaft clavicle fractures.

PurposeThe treatment of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in children remains controversial. The purpose of our study was to compare the outcome of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in children who were managed operatively by flexible intramedullary nailing (FIN) with nonoperative treatment.MethodsA prospective review of 31 children (mean age 10.5 years) with displaced midshaft clavicle fractures treated either by FIN or nonoperatively and with at least a six-month follow-up was undertaken. In all, 24 children underwent FIN and seven underwent nonoperative treatment. The patient outcomes included the Constant-Murley score, Customer Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8), numeric pain rating scale, time to union and time to return to activity. Surgical complications were recorded.ResultsThe two groups were comparable with regards to age, gender and mechanism of injury. At six months of follow-up, the Constant-Murley (97.8 versus 94.7, p < 0.001) and CSQ-8 (29.1 versus 19.1, p < 0.001) scores were higher in the FIN group. Time to union and return to activity were significantly shorter in the FIN group (7.3 and 9.2 weeks versus 10.4 and 16.6 weeks respectively, p < 0.01). The only surgical complication was a FIN exchange for skin irritation due to nail prominence.ConclusionFIN is a minimally invasive procedure for children with displaced midshaft clavicle fractures associated with shorter time to union, quicker return to activity and higher Constant-Murley and CSQ-8 scores when compared with nonoperative treatment. However, the difference in Constant-Murley scores was not clinically significant. Furthermore, the advantages of FIN are at the expense of an increased complication rate of 12.5% (upper 95% confidence interval 33.3%).Level of EvidenceTherapeutic, II

Complex clavicle fractures in children: Kids are not little adults

Background The clavicle is the most commonly fractured bone in the body and accounts for 10–15% of all pediatric fractures. Adult patients with complete midshaft clavicle fractures often undergo surgical management. Pediatric patients have a thicker periosteum, more robust blood supply and a greater healing potential. Controversy exists as to whether to treat adolescents with surgery similar to adults versus with a sling as children are treated. Some orthopaedic surgeons are now operating on adolescent clavicle fractures. Objective The objective of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in adolescent who were treated conservatively with a sling. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of 25 pediatric patients aged 12–16 with complete midshaft clavicle fracture. The outcomes of the study were bony union and functional outcomes such as pain, problems with ADL measured by the modified Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score. Results All patients in our cohort had excellent outcomes at follow-up visits with no complaints of pain or limitations of activities of daily living. Mean follow-up time was 12 months. All patients had perfect modified DASH score of 18. Injury radiographs demonstrated an average of 13 mm shortening initially and 8 mm shortening in final follow-up. Average fracture angulation at final follow-up was 15°. Normal clavicle angulation at the mid shaft is 8°. All clavicles healed completely with no case of malunion or non-union reported. Conclusion Clavicle fractures are common. Although operative treatment of clavicle fractures in the adult population is gaining popularity due to issues in adults with non-union and malunion, the adolescent population is different. The adolescent clavicle fracture demonstrates robust healing and remodeling and complete return to full function. We therefore recommend that adolescent patients aged 12–16 with complete clavicle fracture be treated conservatively with a sling.

Trends in the volume of operative treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures in children and adolescents: a retrospective, 12-year, single-institution analysis.

The purpose of this study was to examine institutional trends in the volume of clavicle fractures in children and adolescents. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed to identify patients aged 10-18 years treated for a clavicle fracture between 1999 and 2011 at a single tertiary-care pediatric hospital. There were significant increases in the number of clavicle fractures seen annually, of midshaft clavicle fractures, and of midshaft clavicle fractures treated operatively. The percentage of midshaft clavicle fractures treated with fixation also increased significantly. The volumes of clavicle fractures and midshaft clavicle fractures treated operatively appear to be increasing. Despite a lack of evidence-based support, the frequency of fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures appear to be increasing in the pediatric population.

P003: Do all clavicle fractures in children need to be managed by orthopaedic surgeons?

Introduction: Although many uncomplicated pediatric fractures do not require routine long-term follow-up with an orthopedic surgeon, practitioners with limited experience dealing with pediatrics fractures will often defer to a strategy of frequent clinical and radiographic follow-up. Development of an evidence-based clinical care pathway can help unnecessary radiation exposure to this patient population and reduce costs to patient families and the healthcare system. Methods: A retrospective analysis including patients who presented to the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) for management of clavicle fractures was performed. Results: Three hundred and forty patients (227 males, 113 females) with an average age of 8.1 (range 0.1-17.8) were included in the study. The mean number of clinic visits including initial consultation in the emergency department was 2.1 (±1.3). The mean number of radiology department appointments was 1.8 (±1.3) where patients received a mean number of 4.2 (±3.0) radiographs. Complications were minimal; 2 refractures in our series and no known cases of non-union. All patients achieved clinical and radiographic union and returned to sport after fracture healing. Conclusion: Our series suggests that the decision to treat operatively is made at the initial assessment. If no surgical indications were present at the initial assessment by the primary-care physician, then routine clinical or radiographic follow up is unnecessary. Our paediatric clavicle fracture pathway will reduce patient radiation exposure and reduce costs incurred by the healthcare system and patients’ families without jeopardizing patient outcomes.

Distal clavicle fractures in children

ObjectiveTo analyze fractures of the distal clavicle region in pediatric patients. MethodsTen patients between the ages of five to eleven years (mean of 7.3 years) were observed. Nine patients were treated conservatively and one surgically. All the fractures were classified using the Nenopoulos classification system. ResultsAll the fractures consolidated without complications. Conservative treatment was used for nine patients, of whom three were in group IIIB, three IIb, two IIa and one IV. The only patient who was treated surgically was a female patient of eleven years of age with a group IV fracture. ConclusionThe treatment indication for distal fractures of the clavicle in children should be based on the patient's age and the displacement of the fragments.

Surgical treatment of clavicle fractures in the adolescent athlete.

Context:Current literature has clearly shown that the indications for surgical treatment of clavicle fractures in adults are expanding. Although clavicle fractures in children and adolescents have traditionally been treated nonoperatively, surgical treatment of displaced clavicle fractures may be indicated for adolescent athletes.Evidence Acquisition:A review of relevant articles published between 1970 and 2013 was completed using MEDLINE and the terms clavicle fracture and adolescent athlete.Study Design:Clinical review.Level of Evidence:Level 3.Results:Excellent outcomes and rapid return to competition can be achieved with surgical management of displaced clavicle fractures in the adolescent athlete with high functional demands similar to those of their adult counterparts. Complications include hardware irritation, screw loosening, pin migration, peri-incisional numbness, and refracture. Athletes and families must be counseled regarding complications and potential need for secondary surgery to remove hardware.Conclusion:The adolescent athlete with a displaced, shortened, or comminuted clavicle fracture presents a unique, controversial dilemma for the surgeon. Earlier return to competition can be achieved with surgical management to restore length and alignment and may prevent malunion, nonunion, and poor outcomes.

Fracture of Distal Third Clavicle with Posterior Displacement and Trapezius Interposition In 7 Year Old child- A Case Report

Lateral end clavicle fractures in children are relatively rare which due to the displacement are often considered for surgical management Distal third fractures with posterior displacement which entraps trapezius often requires open reduction to realign the fragment by removing the interposed soft tissue .We report an injury in a 7 years old child after fall on to outstretched hand which resulted in posteriorly displaced and rotated distal third junction clavicle fracture with trapezius interposition. Considering the age, and significant deformity ,open reduction without internal fixation was done under general anaesthesia.

Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing for Displaced Pediatric Clavicle Midshaft Fractures

Whereas displaced clavicle fractures in young children are treated nonoperatively, older children are more likely to suffer persistent pain and misalignments during a longer period of treatment. This study presents the outcomes of elastic stable intramedullary nailing for displaced clavicle fractures in children over the age of 10. Prospectively, this study evaluates elastic stable intramedullary nailing for displaced clavicle midshaft fractures in children and adolescents, aged 10 to 15 years, from July 2004 to June 2010. We analyzed all complications, patient pain and long-term results, measured using the Constant & Murley Shoulder Score, the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8, and ultrasound. Eight girls and 16 boys (aged 10 to 15 y), 1 with bilateral fracture, were recruited. Sixteen mini-open reductions were necessary. All adolescents reported full mobilization from the first postoperative day, full activity after 1 week, and sporting activity after 1 month. Self-reported pain was very low. Five complications occurred: 1 implant breakage (kick-boxing); 2 nail deformations (fall during football, collision in ice-hockey); and 2 imminent skin perforations. The mean Constant & Murley Shoulder Score at follow-up after 1 year was 99.5 of 100 points; the mean patient satisfaction in the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 was 30.6 of 32 points. Axial deviation of the clavicle was always <10 degrees; shortening <0.5 cm. Elastic stable intramedullary nailing can be offered for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in children older than 10 years. They benefit from little pain, early mobilization, and fast full range of motion. To avoid complications the maximum projection of the ends of the nails must be 5 mm; no sports should be allowed for 4 weeks, contact sports for 8 weeks.

Trends In The Volume Of Operatively Treated Mid-shaft Clavicle Fractures In Children And Adolescents

Objectives:Clavicle fractures are common in children and adolescents and are traditionally treated nonoperatively. With youth sports participation increasing in popularity, including contact sports, the frequency of such injuries may be increasing. The purpose of this study was to examine institutional trends in the volume of operative plate fixation for mid-shaft clavicle fractures in children and adolescents.Methods:Medical records, identified through a departmental database and cross-referenced for accuracy against billing records using ICD-9 codes, were retrospectively reviewed to identify otherwise healthy 10-18 years-olds who presented with a clavicle shaft fracture between 1999-2011 at a single tertiary-care pediatric hospital. Demographic data, fracture characteristics and treatment details were analyzed. Radiographic review of operative cases was used to confirm fracture location and surgical implant. Annual volumes were determined for the overall number of clavicle fractures, mid-shaft clavicle fractures, and mid-shaft fractures that underwent operative plate fixation. Additionally, the annual rate was determined for the number of operative cases among all mid-shaft fractures. Kendall’s Tau-b was used to assess the relationship between case volume and time.Results:From 1999-2011, a total of 882 patients were seen at our institution with a diaphyseal clavicle fracture (mean age: 14.3), 644 (73%) of which were mid-shaft. Of these 644, 111 were treated with operative plate fixation (mean age: 15.9). There was a significant increase in the number of mid-shaft clavicle fractures seen annually over that period, from 20/yr to 85/yr (r=0.80, p<0.0001). The percent of mid-shaft clavicle fractures treated with plate fixation also increased significantly from 5% to 25% (r=0.84, p<0.0001) while the rate of mid-shaft fractures among all diaphyseal fractures remained more stable. Among the mid-shaft fracture cases that received operative plate fixation, 53.2% presented with fractures received during a competitive sporting event.Conclusion:The volumes of clavicle fractures and of mid-shaft clavicle fractures treated operatively appear to be increasing. Additionally, despite a lack of evidence based support, the frequency of operative plate fixation of mid-shaft clavicle fractures appear to be increasing in the pediatric population. Many of these fractures are of a sports-based etiology.

Open reduction and internal fixation of closed fractures of clavicle in children

Open reduction and internal fixation of closed fractures of clavicle in children

Klavikulafrakturen in der Kindertraumatologie

Clavicle fractures are most common in children. Due to the thick periosteum that provides appositional bone proliferation on the one hand and a high potential of the medial physis for longitudinal growth on the other hand the fractures have an enormous healing potential. Both factors are also responsible for good fracture remodeling. In adolescents, the periosteal tube gets thinner and fracture types correspond to fractures in adults. Most fractures heal with good results after conservative treatment. In this article clavicle fractures in children and adolescents and options for therapy including the rare surgical treatment depending on different fracture localizations and morphologies are discussed.

Conservative Management of Paediatric Clavicle Fractures

Paediatric clavicle fractures have traditionally been treated nonoperatively. Recent studies have recommended operative management for displaced midshaft fractures. We conducted a retrospective review of all clavicle fractures in children aged one to sixteen over a two-year period. We classified fractures and evaluated followup and clinical outcome. We identified 190 fractures. There were 135 boys and 55 girls. 65% of fractures were displaced and 35% undisplaced. Mean radiographic and clinical followup was 35 days and 44 days, respectively. Clavicle fractures in children heal with nonoperative management. Radiographs of clavicle fractures in children are unnecessary in the absence of clinical symptoms.

Operative treatment of closed fractures of clavicle in children

Operative treatment of closed fractures of clavicle in children