Clavicle Fractures Research Articles

Superior Suspensory Complex of the Shoulder Reconstruction for Acute and Chronic ACJ Dislocations: The QUASR 3-Tunnel Technique

BackgroundManagement of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries have wide variety of classification systems, surgical indications and operative techniques. Our study describes the QUASR (Queensland Unit for Advanced Shoulder Research) 3-Tunnel Technique with LARS (Ligament Augmentation and Reconstruction System; Surgical Implants and Devices, Arc sur Tille, France) artificial ligament to reconstruct the superior shoulder suspensory complex (SSSC) in acute, chronic and revision ACJ dislocations and lateral clavicle fractures. MethodsOur prospective cohort series of patients undergoing the QUASR 3-Tunnel Technique using LARS artificial ligament. This technique reconstructs the SSSC using two 4mm clavicle tunnels, one acromion tunnel, and is arthroscopically assisted to pass the artificial ligament under the coracoid. The ligament is secured with braided composite sutures and no interference screw is used. Pre and postoperative functional outcome scores were compared in patients with minimum 12-months follow-up. ResultsOf 26 patients in this series, 7 (27%) were operated within 4 weeks of injury, two (8%) were revision cases, and six (23%) were lateral clavicle fractures. Mean time to surgery was 14 weeks (2-650). Mean postoperative scores with associated 95% CI were Specific Acromioclavicular Score 87.38 (CI 75.38, 99.37), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score 94.60 (87.85, 101.35), Constant 79.47 (71.87, 87.07), Simple Shoulder Test 85.44 (72.34, 98.54) and Visual Analogue Score 0.50 (-0.15, 1.15). There were two infections and one atraumatic loss of reduction, however there were no tunnel fractures. ConclusionThe QUASR 3-Tunnel Technique with LARS artificial ligament is a safe and efficient technique for both acute and chronic acromioclavicular joint reconstruction, lateral clavicle fractures with coracoclavicular ligament disruption and complex revision cases with favorable outcomes at mid-term follow-up.

Surgical access route and choice of implant in the region of the clavicle shaft

Clavicle fractures are among the most frequent injuries of the shoulder girdle. Nondisplaced fractures are generally treated conservatively, whereas dislocated fractures require surgical reduction and stabilization. A variety of implants and surgical techniques with reliable results are available. While all techniques provide similar healing rates, they share acommon disadvantage with the high incidence of implant irritation and correspondingly high rates of second interventions for material removal. The various surgical techniques for clavicle shaft fractures with their specific areas of application as well as advantages and disadvantages are presented. This review also provides an aid for deciding which surgical technique is most appropriate based on the fracture morphology. Furthermore, an overview of current research activities is presented, with aspecific focus on new implants which could help to reduce implant irritation. Open superior and anteroinferior plate osteosyntheses each show similar reliable results. The minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique offers an alternative for multifragmented fractures as it has alower complication rate compared to the open procedure. Double plate osteosynthesis using minifragment plates shows promising results with respect to the incidence of implant-related irritation. Larger prospective studies are still pending. Intramedullary nailing offers agood alternative, especially if material removal is planned anyway, e.g., in the pediatric setting.

Birth Trauma: Incidence and Associated Risk Factors: A Case–Control Study

Obstetric trauma refers to injuries that occur to the newborn during the birth process and can occur despite proper perinatal care. Limiting risk factors could reduce its incidence and avoid significant morbidity and mortality to the infant. The aim of our study was to determine the incidence of birth injury in our setting and to discover its associated risks factors. For this case–control study, all births that took place in our center during the year 2021 were systematically reviewed. A total of 231 full-term newborns, with 77 cases and 154 controls, were included. For each case, two controls of similar sex and gestational age, born during the same shift before and after the case were selected. Preterm infants, outborn patients, twins, and infants with major congenital anomalies were excluded. The incidence of birth injury was 22.8‰ of singleton births. The most frequent injuries were cephalohematoma, peripheral facial paralysis, and clavicle fracture. After the adjusted logistic regression analysis, the variables that were independently associated with obstetric trauma were (aOR; 95% CI) breech presentation: 10.6 (1.2, 92.6), p = 0.032; dystocia: 7.8 (3.8, 16.2), p < 0.001; forceps instrumentation: 3.1 (1.0, 9.1), p = 0.043; induced labor: 3.0 (1.6, 5.5), p < 0.001; and newborn birthweight (per each 100 g): 1.1 (1.0, 1.2), p = 0.004. In conclusion, the incidence of birth trauma in our setting was 22.8‰ of singletons. The most frequent injuries were cephalohematoma, peripheral facial paralysis, and clavicle fracture. There was an independent association between birth trauma and breech presentation, dystocia, forceps instrumentation, labor induction, and infant birthweight.

Treatment of clavicle fracture: Interpretation of the 2023 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Clinical Practice Guidelines

Clavicle fracture is a common orthopedic injury, accounting for approximately 2.6%-4% of all adult skeletal fractures. In 2023, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) developed evidence-based treatment guidelines for clavicle fractures, which include 4 recommendations and 10 options. This article, based on a thorough review of the guidelines, discusses the clinical treatment of clavicle fractures, aiming to share advancements and the latest diagnostic and therapeutic considerations with orthopedic colleagues to enhance treatment outcomes.

Using Next-Generation Sequencing to Understand Infection Prevention in Surgical Treatment of Upper Extremity Fractures-A Prospective Cohort Study.

Postoperative fracture site infection can lead to notable patient morbidity, increase cost of care, and further contribute to healthcare disparities globally. Dogma suggests surgical blades as a vehicle for introducing bacteria into the surgical site; however, there is a paucity of literature to support this claim. This study uses advanced DNA sequencing to detect bacterial DNA on surgical blades used in upper extremity fracture surgeries. This was a prospective study, conducted at a high-volume level 1 trauma center. All acute, closed upper extremity fractures requiring surgical stabilization were consecutively enrolled in a prospective fashion. The primary end point was the presence of bacterial DNA on the surgical blade using next-generation sequencing (NGS). At the time of surgery, two blades were sterilely opened. One blade served as the control while the other was used for the initial skin incision. Two negative control blades were opened directly into a sterile container. Two positive control blades were used for skin incision through known infections. All samples were sent for NGS analysis. Forty patients were enrolled in this study. The median age was 33.5 years, and 30% were female; the median body mass index was 26.52. Humerus fractures were the most common injury (N = 17, 42.5%), followed by clavicle fractures (13, 32.5%) and radius/ulna fractures (10, 25.0%). NGS analysis revealed no contamination of test blades used for skin incision. Three control blades tested positive for bacterial DNA. Negative control blades tested negative for bacterial DNA (0/2); the positive control blades resulted positive for bacterial DNA contamination (2/2). Surgical blades used for skin incision in the upper extremity are not contaminated with bacterial DNA as analyzed by NGS. This finding challenges previous surgical dogma regarding surgical blade contamination and supports that the same surgical blade can safely be used for deeper dissection. Level II study: IRB approval-IRB#848938.

Effectiveness of minimally invasive internal fixation with locking plates for mid-shaft clavicle fractures

To explore effectiveness of minimally invasive internal fixation with locking plates for mid-shaft clavicle fractures. Between October 2022 and August 2023, 28 patients with mid-shaft clavicle fractures were treated by minimally invasive internal fixation with locking plates. There were 10 males and 18 females with a mean age of 46.2 years (range, 18-74 years). The fractures were caused by traffic accident in 16 patients, sports-related injury in 7 patients, and other injuries in 5 patients. According to Robinson classification, the fractures were classified as type 2A1 in 1 case, type 2A2 in 6 cases, type 2B1 in 15 cases, and type 2B2 in 6 cases. The interval between fracture and operation ranged from 5 hours to 21 days (median, 1.0 days). The pain visual analogue scale (VAS) score was 8.1±1.6. The VAS score at 3 days after operation and the occurrence of complications after operation were recorded. During follow-up, X-ray films were re-examined to observe the healing of the fracture; the shoulder joint function was evaluated according to the Constant-Murley score at 6 months, and the length of the incision scar (total length of the distal and proximal incisions) was measured. All operations were successfully completed without any subclavian vascular or nerve damage. All incisions healed by first intention. The VAS score was 1.2±0.7 at 3 days after operation, and there was a significant difference in VAS score between pre- and post-operation ( t=8.704， P<0.001). At 1 week after operation, the patient's shoulder was basically painless, and they resumed normal life. All patients were followed up 12-20 months (mean, 13.3 months). X-ray films showed that the bone callus began to form at 2-4 months after operation (mean, 2.7 months). There was no delayed healing or non healing of the fracture, and no loosening or fracture of the internal fixators during follow-up. At 6 months after operation, the mean total incision length was 1.5 cm (range, 1.1-1.8 cm); no patient complained of numbness or paresthesia on subclavicular region or anterior chest wall. The Constant-Murley score of shoulder joint function was 93-100 (mean, 97.6). Minimally invasive internal fixation with locking plates is a good surgical method for treating mid-shaft clavicle fractures, with simple operation, minimal trauma, good postoperative results, and high satisfaction.

Innervation of the human sternoclavicular joint.

The sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) functions as the basal joint of the entire upper limb and must move in the proper pattern for normal scapular motion. Afferent sensations from joints, such as proprioception and pain sensation, are important for maintaining the proper motion and condition of joints. Detailed anatomical data are useful for discussing injuries or surgeries that impair the afferent nerve to the SCJ. Nerve branches to SCJs were examined on 12 sides, and the subclavian nerve was investigated on six sides to clarify whether it innervates this joint. On seven of the 12 sides, the SCJ was innervated by two nerves, (1) a branch from the medial supraclavicular nerve that ran medially along the clavicle and (2) a branch from the lateral pectoral nerve that innervated the clavicular head and upper part of the sternocostal head of the pectoralis major. This branch ran medially behind the clavicular head of the pectoralis major and reached the SCJ. In the remaining five sides, the SCJ was innervated solely by the branch from the medial supraclavicular nerve. Subclavian nerves ended within the subclavius muscle or periosteum of the clavicle and were separate from the SCJs. Our data on the route of nerve branches to the SCJ suggest that injury or surgery, such as clavicle fracture or resection of the clavicular head of the pectoralis major for myocutaneous flap transfer, can impair the SCJ's afferent nerve supply.

Evaluating Postoperative Pain Management using the Detroit Interventional Pain Management tool after fracture surgery: How well are we really doing?

To assess patients' opioid prescription usage and pain management satisfaction after fracture surgery. Design : An IRB-approved prospective prognostic cohort study for postoperative fracture patients was conducted. Patients were evaluated by an independent observer at two weeks, six weeks, three months, and six months postoperatively where they were given Detroit Interventional Pain Assessment (DIPA) questionnaires regarding their postoperative pain and opioid usage. Opioid prescriptions were verified by Michigan Automated Prescription System. All patients were divided into major fractures (tibia, femur, acetabulum, pelvis, calcaneus, talus, and polytrauma) and minor fractures (scapula, clavicle, humerus, radius, ulna, scaphoid, carpal/metacarpal, patella, fibula, ankle, and metarsal) and were followed for two years. Single-Center Level One Trauma Center. Patients presenting to clinic over a six month period were invited to participate in this study. Patients who did not consent were excluded. Outcome measures were the amount of prescribed opioids in daily Milligram Morphine equivalents (MMEs), opioid usage, DIPA pain scores, pain management efficiency (percentage of patients reporting no pain or tolerable pain with their regimen). Prescribed MMEs, pain management efficiency scores, and the percentage of patients using opioids were compared across all postoperative periods. For 201 fracture patients, the average age was 47.8 ± 16.3 SD (18-87 years) and there were 116 males (57.8%) and 85 females (42.2%). The percentage of patients using opioids and their daily prescribed MMEs significantly decreased from two weeks (48.2%, 21.6 MMEs) to six months (10.3%, 8.13 MMEs) (P < 0.001). Fifty-one percent of patients were off opioids at two weeks, 64.5% at six weeks, 84.2% at three months, and 89.7% at six months. All opioid prescriptions at six months and two years were prescribed to polytrauma patients who underwent sequential surgeries and these prescriptions originated from outside prescribers. Pain management efficiency scores were worst at two weeks (67.2%) but improved at three months (82.6%). As patients transitioned further from their surgical date, there was a decrease in opioid prescriptions and patient reported opioid usage. Despite the opioid tapering practices by surgeons, polytrauma patients still received prescriptions from outside prescribers for orthopaedic aftercare after three months, signaling the necessity for patients to see outside prescribers for their pain management after this time. Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Treatment concepts for the medial clavicle and the sternoclavicular joint

Medial clavicle fractures and injuries to the sternoclavicular joint are rare injuries but can have life-threatening consequences. There are no standardized treatment algorithms or guidelines for the diagnostics and treatment. This article provides an overview of the individual topographies as well as the conservative and surgical treatment strategies.Conservative treatment is preferred for medial clavicle fractures. The indications for surgical treatment are variable but this is frequently carried out if there is a fracture displacement > 1 cm or1 shaft width and high functional demands. In the case of accompanying injuries to neurovascular structures, an open fracture or the threat of perforation of the skin, surgical treatment is mandatory. Open reduction and internal fixation using (locking) plates is currently the preferred form of treatment.In the case of posterior dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint, an immediate closed reduction must be attempted with the patient under analgosedation and with emergency treatment on standby. This temporal urgency does not exist for anterior and superior dislocations. Surgical treatment is indicated in cases of unsuccessful reduction, persistent symptomatic instability or injuries of the neurovascular bundle. From a multitude of treatment options, arthrodesis with suture cerclage has shown good results. Tendon grafts as well as special hook plates are increasingly being used due to better biomechanical qualities. The surgical treatment of combined injuries is determined by the individual injury pattern.Despite the variety of treatment strategies, the long-term outcome has consistently been positively described.

Evaluating the Outcomes of Managing Displaced Clavicular Fractures by Using Precontoured Clavicular Plates.

Background and objective Midshaft clavicular fractures were managed conservatively in the past, with a significant incidence of nonunion and poor functional outcomes in displaced fractures. Anatomically precontoured clavicle plates, since their introduction, have proved to be a superior method for managing these fractures. While open reduction and internal fixation of displaced clavicular fractures with plates have produced successful functional outcomes, complications like plate prominence, scar, postoperative numbness, wound dehiscence, refracture, andinfection continue to discourage surgeons from plating these fractures. This study aimed to evaluate whether the precontoured 3.5-mm locking compression plate (LCP) for the clavicle is effective in the management of displaced clavicular fractures with minimum risk of complications. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted among 26 patients with displaced clavicular fractures that were managed with 3.5-mm precontouredLCP. The functional outcome was assessed by using the Constant-Murley Score (CMS)and healing was assessed radiographically six months postoperatively. Results Twenty-five patients were available for the final follow-up at the end of 24 weeks. All of them achieved excellent functional scores. The mean CMS was 94.9. No complication was observed in 85% of the cases. Implant failure was observed in both fractures of a bilateral clavicle fracture patient within a month of surgery. Implant irritation without prominence was seen in one patient and another had a prominent postoperative scar.The mean time for the radiological union was 13.8 weeks with union time ranging from three to five months. Conclusions Based on our findings, employing 3.5-mm precontoured clavicular LCPs is a useful technique that can provide good functional outcomes in displaced clavicular fractures.

Outcomes Following Operative Vs. Non-Operative Treatment of Completely Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fractures in Adolescent Baseball Players and Other Overhead Athletes

Outcomes Following Operative Vs. Non-Operative Treatment of Completely Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fractures in Adolescent Baseball Players and Other Overhead Athletes

Comparative study of stabilization of a displaced midshaft clavicle fracture with either an intramedullary nail fixation or a superiorly placed plate.

This retrospective study compares two techniques of fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures: nail fixation versus plate fixation. We compared titanium elastic nail fixation with plate fixation in patients with uncomplicated midshaft clavicle fractures. In total, 84 patients were included in our study: 35 in the nail fixation group and 49 in the plate fixation group. We compared the 12-month postoperative shoulder function and scar assessment. Primary outcome was measured by the DASH score and POSAS score. Secondary outcome was measured by Constant score, surgery complications, implant removal, hospitalization days, and size and quality of the scar. Here was no significant difference in DASH and Constant scores between the two groups. However, the nail group leads in the POSAS (12 (12 - 12) 25 (17 - 30) p < 0.001) and in all scar parameters (size, scar influence). There were no significant differences in the complications despite implant removal where more removals were noted in the nail group (16 (44.4%) 4 (8.3%) p < 0.001). Fixation of uncomplicated midshaft clavicle fractures with nail provides better cosmetic results and scar quality than fixation with plate, and presents no significant differences in functional ability or complications.

Acromioclavicular joint dislocation with loop double endobutton fixation assisted by orthopaedic surgery robot positioning system

ObjectiveAcute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is a common orthopedic injury that can significantly impair shoulder function and reduce quality of life. Effective treatment methods are essential to restore function and alleviate pain. To investigate the short-term clinical efficacy of the minimally invasive closed-loop double endobutton fixation assisted by orthopaedic surgery robot positioning system (TiRobot) in the treatment of AC joint dislocation, and to evaluate its feasibility and safety.MethodsThe clinical data of 19 patients with AC joint dislocation who underwent treatment with closed-loop double Endobutton fixation assisted by TiRobot between May 2020 and December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores, the Constant Murley Score (CMS), and shoulder abduction range of motion were assessed and compared preoperatively and at the last follow-up. Computed tomography (CT) parameters of the acromioclavicular joint, including acromioclavicular distance (ACD), the distance between the upper and lower Endobutton (DED), the horizontal distance between the anterior edge of the distal clavicle and the anterior edge of the acromion (DACC), the diameter of the clavicular tunnel (DCT), and coracoid tunnel diameter (DC), were compared at 2 days, and 1 month after surgery, as well as at the last follow-up, along with the evaluation of intraoperative and postoperative complications.ResultsThe postoperative VAS, CMS, and shoulder-abduction range of motion were significantly improved compared with the preoperative (all, P<0.05). The statistical analysis showed no significant difference in the CT image parameters of the acromioclavicular joint at 2 days and 1 month after surgery(all, P>0.05). Comparisons of DCT and DC revealed statistically significant differences between the last follow-up and 1 month after surgery (P<0.05), and no statistically significant difference was found in ACD, DED, and DACC(all, P>0.05). There were no complications such as infection or vascular or neurological damage, no cases of rostral or clavicle fractures, loss of reduction, heterotopic ossification, shoulder stiffness, and no loosening or breaking of internal fixations.ConclusionClosed-loop double endobutton internal fixation assisted by TiRobot is an ideal method for the treatment of acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation. This method has the advantages of relatively simple operation, more accurate localization of bone tunnel during operation, less surgical trauma, and good recovery of shoulder function.

Superior versus anteroinferior plating for mid-shaft clavicle fractures: a randomized clinical trial

Superior versus anteroinferior plating for mid-shaft clavicle fractures: a randomized clinical trial

Comparison of the use of biocompatible materials and titanium in the treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures with a patient-specific plate: a finite element analysis study.

Clavicular midshaft fractures treated with titanium plates may encounter complications like implant failure. We assess if alternative biocompatible materials suchs as PLA, PLA/HA, PEEK offer comparable stability. Our study evaluates the biomechanical performance of these materials in surgical management of midshaft clavicle fractures. We simulated a personalized fixation implant with four different materials and conducted finite element analysis in ANSYS to assess maximum von Mises stress (MvMs). The MvMs occurring on the plates, screws, clavicle, and fracture site were recorded. MvMs on titanium material at the 6th hole level (764.79MPa) and the 6th screw level (503.38MPa), with the highest stresses observed at 48.52MPa on the lateral clavicle at the 1st hole level and 182.27MPa on the medial clavicle at the 6th hole level. In PLA material analyses, the highest MvMs were observed at the 3rd hole level (340.6MPa) and the 3rd screw level (157.83MPa), with peak stresses at 379.63MPa on the lateral clavicle fracture line and 505.44MPa on the medial clavicle fracture line. In PLA/HA material analyses, the highest MvMs were at the 3rd hole (295.99MPa) and 3rd screw (128.27MPa), with peak stresses at 220.33MPa on the lateral clavicle and 229.63MPa on the medial clavicle fracture line. In PEEK material analyses, the highest MvMs were at the 3rd hole (234.74MPa) and 6th screw (114.48MPa), with peak stresses at 184.36MPa on the lateral clavicle and 180.1MPa on the medial clavicle. Our findings indicate that titanium material shows significantly higher stresses on plates and screws compared to those on the clavicle, suggesting a risk of implant failure. PLA and PLA/HA were inadequate for fixation. Although stress on the plate with PEEK material is higher than on the clavicle, it remains lower than titanium, indicating potential stability at fracture site. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Effect of Sextant Fixating Angle of Spiral Clavicle Plate on Biomechanical Stability-A Preliminary Finite Element Study.

A spiral clavicle plate has been accepted for its superior multidirectional compatibility in the treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures from a biomechanical perspective. However, the influence of the sextant angle (spiral level) definition on biomechanical performance has not been clarified. A conceptual finite element analysis was conducted to identify the advantages and drawbacks of spiral clavicle plates with various sextant angle definitions. Conventional superior and three different conceptual spiral plates with sextant angle definitions ranging from 45 to 135 degrees were constructed to restore an OTA 15-B1.3 midshaft clavicle fracture model. Three major loading scenarios (cantilever downward bending, axial compression, and axial torsion) were simulated to evaluate the reconstructed structural stiffness and the stress on the clavicle plate and bone screws. The spiral clavicle plate demonstrated greater capability in resisting cantilever downward bending with an increase in sextant angle and showed comparable structural stiffness and implant stress compared to the superior clavicle plate. However, weakened resistance to axial compression load was noted for the spiral clavicle plate, with lowered stiffness and increased stress on the clavicle plate and screws as the spiral level increased. The spiral clavicle plate has been reported to offer multidirectional compatibility for the treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures, as well as geometric advantages in anatomical matching and reduced skin prominence after surgery. The current study supports that remarkable cantilever bending strength can be achieved with this plate. However, users must consider the potential drawback of lowered axial compression resistance in safety considerations.

Case report: Rare case of a traumatic isolated rupture of the conoid ligament

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries can involve disruption of the AC and coracoclavicular ligaments. We report a case in aprofessional rugby player of an isolated disruption of the conoid ligament with no injury to the AC and trapezoid ligaments. A 24-year-old professional rugby player fell onto his outstretched hand, injuring his right shoulder. The differential diagnosis was an AC joint injury, coracoid fracture, stress fracture of the coracoid process, or subtle clavicle fracture, which could not be diagnosed on plain film X-ray. An MRI confirmed an isolated rupture of the conoid ligament. No injury to the AC ligament or trapezoid was identified. Five weeks after the injury, the patient returned to full contact training and match play. This case demonstrates that in AC joint injuries, it is possible that the trapezoid ligament and conoid ligament are not simultaneously disrupted, and management is per a Grade II/III AC joint injury.

Treatment of Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation Using Hook Plate: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis and Update of Current Literature

Abstract Background the hook plate metallic device showed early promise as an alternative implant to treat unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocation injuries. The hook plate can be used to provide an indirect reduction of a distal clavicle fracture. This indirect reduction technique is useful for comminuted fractures or fractures with very small distal fragments in which conventional reduction and fixation is difficult. Aim of the Work to evaluate the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation and radiographic outcomes. Materials and Methods Studies were considered eligible if they expressed treatment of acromioclavicular joint dislocation using the hook plate and described the patient's clinical and functional outcomes; intra-operative, post-operative complications, full-text articles were available, randomized controlled trials, including cluster RCTs, controlled (non-randomized) clinical trials or cluster trials, prospective and retrospective comparative cohort studies, and case-control or nested case-control studies. We will exclude cross-sectional studies, case series, case reports and literature not in English. All items that didn't match the above criteria were excluded. Results The total studies included 270 patients with average mean age 35.5 years and mean follow up 25.33 months. The Constant Murely score average 84 points (The CMS was developed for the evaluation of shoulder function with subjective and objective components) and the p value &amp;lt;.05 that means all patients had significant improvement. Full range of motion could be achieved in the patients. Patients with restrictions of range of motion mainly showed limitations in abduction and external rotation. These limitations are most probably caused by the post-operative immobilization, which is necessary after implantation of hook plates to ensure healing of the ligament structures and avoid damage of the acromion by the hook itself. Other studies also showed restrictions of range of motion for abduction and external rotation after hook plate implantation. Conclusion it has a good to excellent Constant Murely score (full range of motion) that enables quick return to activities. It is useful for (Rockwood III-VI). So good clinical results can be achieved with hook plate.

Efficacy of the shape-memory alloy ring hugger and microplate in proximal clavicle fractures

The efficacy and safety of shape-memory alloy (SMA) ring hugger and microplate in the treatment of proximal clavicle fractures were compared to better improve the quality of patient rehabilitation and minimize complications. The mechanical properties of Ni-Ti alloy and Ti64Al4V (compressive strength and elastic modulus) were examined in the physicochemical property tests, while, mouse osteoblasts were cultured to test their biocompatibility. Subsequently, clinical data of patients with clavicle fractures treated at our hospital from January 2012 to January 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into microplate and SMA groups based on the surgical methods, and the follow-up period was 1 year post-surgery. Clinical treatment, mobility and functional recovery (DASH score and Constant score) of the affected upper limb, numbness, and adverse effects were compared between the two groups. SMA exhibited a compressive strength similar to that of Ti6Al4V, but its modulus of elasticity was significantly lower. Meanwhile, the results of the cellular experiments suggested that the addition of SMA and Ti6Al4V would not markedly decrease the osteoblast activity, suggesting that both internal fixation implants had good biocompatibility. In addition, SMA ring hugger was effective in reducing operative time, intraoperative bleeding, wound size, fracture end healing time, and residual fracture shortening. In terms of postoperative assessment of affected limb mobility, SMA ring hugger better improved the mobility of the affected shoulder in supination, abduction, adduction, and forward flexion, and was more effective in decreasing the DASH score and increasing the Constant score. Meanwhile, SMA ring hugger effectively reduced numbness in the affected area and decreased the incidence of delayed wound healing, exercise restrictions, proliferative scars, and vegetative stimulus. Therefore, SMA ring hugger demonstrates favorable mechanical performance and biocompatibility, meanwhile, it can better promote postoperative functional recovery of the affected limb in clavicle fracture patients with guaranteed safety.

Multicenter, Prospective, Observational Study of Nonoperative Versus Operative Treatment for High-Energy Midshaft Clavicle Fractures.

Evaluate if nonoperative or operative treatment of displaced clavicle fractures delivers reduced rates of nonunion and improved Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores. Multicenter, prospective, observational. Seven Level 1 Trauma Centers in the United States. Adults with closed, displaced (100% displacement/shortened >1.5 cm) midshaft clavicle fractures (Orthopaedic Trauma Association 15.2) were treated nonoperatively, with plates and screw fixation, or with intramedullary fixation from 2003 to 2018. DASH scores (2, 6 weeks, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months), reoperation, and nonunion were compared between the nonoperative, plate fixation, and intramedullary fixation groups. Four hundred twelve patients were enrolled, with 203 undergoing plate fixation, 26 receiving intramedullary fixation, and 183 treated nonoperatively. The average age of the nonoperative group was 40.1 (range 18-79) years versus 35.8 (range 18-74) in the plate group and 39.3 (range 19-56) in the intramedullary fixation group (P = 0.06). One hundred forty (76.5%) patients in the nonoperative group were male compared with 154 (75.9%) in the plate group and 18 (69.2%) in the intramedullary fixation group (P = 0.69). All groups showed similar DASH scores at 2 weeks, 12 months, and 24 months (P > 0.05). Plate fixation demonstrated better DASH scores (median = 20.8) than nonoperative (median = 28.3) at 6 weeks (P = 0.04). Intramedullary fixation had poorer DASH scores at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months than plate fixation and worse DASH scores than nonoperative at 6 months (P < 0.05). The nonunion rate for nonoperative treatment (14.6%) was significantly higher than the plate group (0%) (P < 0.001). Operative treatment of displaced clavicle fractures provided lower rates of nonunion than nonoperative treatment. Except at 6 weeks, no difference was observed in DASH scores between plate fixation and nonoperative treatment. Intramedullary fixation resulted in worse DASH scores than plate fixation at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months and worse DASH scores than nonoperative at 6 months. Implant removal was the leading reason for reoperation in the plate and intramedullary fixation groups, whereas surgery for nonunion was the primary reason for surgery in the nonoperative group. Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.