Fixation Of Clavicle Fractures Research Articles

Intramedullary headless compression screw fixation for midshaft fractures of the clavicle: A case report study

Historically, displaced midshaft clavicle fractures have been managed conservatively. However, recent literature has supported operative management of displaced and shortened clavicle fractures. Several options exist for surgical fixation, including plating and intramedullary (IM) fixation. IM fixation has the potential advantages of a smaller incision and decreased dissection and soft-tissue exposure and less prominent hardware.Rockwood and Hagie pins represented the most popular form of IM fixation during the last two decades,but concerns exist regarding stability and complications. The use of alternative IM implants, such as Kirschner wires, titanium elastic nails, and cannulated screws, also has been described in limited case series. However, concerns persist regarding the complications associated with the use of these implants, including implant failure, migration, skin complications, prominent screw head and construct stability. Our technique describes intramedullary fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures using a single headless compression screw (HCS) 4.5–6.5-mm. which is simple, affordable, and allows intramedullary compression, stability, load sharing, little periosteal stripping, very limited skin incision and rapid recovery after surgery.

Thin patient-specific clavicle fracture fixation plates can mechanically outperform commercial plates: An in silico approach.

Current fixation plates used to operatively stabilize clavicular fractures are suboptimal, leading to reoperation rates up to 53%. Plate irritation, which can be caused by a poor geometric fit and plate thickness, has been found to be an important factor for reoperation. Moreover, muscle attachment sites (MAS) have to be detached occasionally. To improve current surgical clavicle fracture treatment with plate osteosynthesis, a change in plate design is required. The goal of this study was to design a patient-specific clavicle fracture fixation plate that includes geometrical optimization and stiffness determination. Its biomechanical performance has been compared with a commercial plate by examining the geometric fit, anatomical outline, stresses and interfragmentary motion using a finite element analysis with physiological loading and boundary conditions. Evaluation showed a better geometrical fit of the patient-specific plate as well as an improved fracture reduction. Displacements between fracture fragments were lower in case of the patient-specific plate, both when a fracture gap and no fracture gap were present. Results indicate a superior mechanical performance in terms of all investigated outcomes of the patient-specific plate compared to the commercial plate, while better aligning with the patient-specific geometry and without the need for MAS release. Due to the patient-specific geometry and reduced thickness, these fixation plates are expected to decrease the operation time, as intraoperative contouring will become irrelevant, and to decrease reoperation rates as implant irritation will be minimized.

Clavicular osteotomy to assess subclavian vein injury during internal fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures.

Midshaft clavicle fractures are commonly fixed with locking plates. The subclavian vein risks injury during this procedure and the consequences can be fatal. The purpose of this present study is to describe a clavicular osteotomy technique in order to equip orthopaedic surgeons with a means of rapidly accessing a subclavian vein injury. The osteotomy should only be performed following an urgent intraoperative vascular surgery assessment. There must be shared consensus from both orthopaedic and vascular surgery that direct repair of the subclavian vein is necessary, and further exposure is required. The results of the technique performed on thirteen embalmed cadaveric specimens are also included. The osteotomy was able to expose 3.16 cm (SD = 0.60) of the subclavian vein and both the fracture and osteotomy site of all clavicles (100%) were able to be reduced and fixed using a single pre-contoured fifteen-hole lateral plate intended for use on the contralateral shoulder. This surgical technique study confirms that in the rare circumstance that the osteotomy is utilized, adequate exposure of the subclavian vein is achieved.

Minimally-Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis for Clavicle Fractures.

Objective To analyze the radiological, clinical, and functional outcomes of clavicle fractures treated with the minimally-invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique. Methods From June 2018 to July 2019, 17 cases of clavicular fractures were managed using the MIPO technique under C-arm fluoroscopy. The functional outcomes were assessed using the Constant-Murley score and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. The clinical results of union, the complications, the operative time, the hospital stay, as well as infection, were analyzed. Results The mean follow-up time was of 10.41 ± 1.75 months (range: 8 to 14 months). There were 11 male and 6 female patients, with a mean age of 39.05 ± 10.76 years (range: 22 to 57 years). All fractures united on the mean time of 15.35 ± 3.08 weeks (range: 12 to 20 weeks). The mean operative time was of 98.11 ± 13.83 minutes (range: 70 to 130 minutes), and the mean length of the hospital stay was of 4.7 ± 1.12 days (range: 3 to 7 days). The mean Constant-Murley score was of 74.82 ± 6.36 in 4 th postoperstive month, and of 92.35 ± 5.48 in the 8 th postoperative month, which was statistically significant. The mean DASH score was of 9.94 ± 1.55 in the 4 th postoperative month, and of 5.29 ± 1.85 in the 8 th postoperative month, which was also statistically significant. One patient had superficial skin infection at the site of the incision. Conclusions The MIPO technique is an alternative method for the fixation of clavicle fractures, but it is technically more demanding, and requires well-equipped operating room facilities.

Fixation of distal clavicle fractures with coracoclavicular instability: acomparative biomechanical study in human cadavers.

BackgroundThe need for coracoclavicular (CC) stabilization in the fixation of fractures with CC instability (Neer type IIB and V) was biomechanically demonstrated by higher construct strength than isolated locking plate osteosynthesis. It was the purpose of this study to prove noninferiority of the new cow-hitch suture repair technique compared with the well-established suture tape double-button fixation with regard to overall fixation strength and cyclic loading properties.MethodsTwelve human cadaver shoulders (7 right and 5 left) were matched for sex and age (mean age: 75 ± 5 years). An oblique parasagittal fracture line 20 mm medial to the acromioclavicular joint line was created, and the CC ligaments were dissected. Six shoulders were reconstructed by a double FiberTape fixation with two suture buttons (group DB), and the remaining six shoulders by a cow-hitch suture repair using a double FiberWire with only coracoid button fixation (group CH). Both reconstruction techniques were tested in a servo-hydraulic material testing machine for cyclic displacement (mm), stiffness (N/mm), and maximum load-to-failure (N) after 500 cycles at 3 mm/s and inferosuperior load between 15 and 70 N. Superior fragment displacement in space was recorded using a MicroScribe digitizer.ResultsThere were no statistically significant differences regarding cyclic displacement (group DB: 0.7 mm; group CH: 1.3 mm; P = .36), stiffness (group DB: 177 N/mm; group CH: 116 N/mm; P = .17), maximum load-to-failure (group DB: 560 N; group CH: 492 N; P = .59), and superior displacement in space of the medial fragment (group DB: 3.2 mm; group CH: 1.6 mm; P = .48).ConclusionFixation of unstable distal clavicle fractures using a double FiberWire cow-hitch suture repair with isolated coracoid button fixation for stand-alone CC stabilization resulted in similar biomechanical properties to a double-suture button fixation with FiberTapes while avoiding prominent clavicular implants.

FIXATION OF A CLOSED DISPLACED MIDSHAFT CLAVICLE FRACTURE BY INTRAMEDULLARY K-WIRE: A CASE REPORT

Background: Fractures of the clavicle record for practically 50% of all injuries in the shoulder girdle. In recent years, the treatment paradigm for clavicle fractures has shifted from nonoperative treatment toward operative treatment, especially in fractures with significant displacement or shortening. Case Report: A 16 years old female presented to the emergency room with an injury on her right shoulder after a motorcycle accident. The radiograph showed a displaced midshaft clavicle fracture, classified as Robinson 2B1. Operative measures were performed using intramedullary K-Wire. Discussion: There is no universally agreed gold standard for clavicle fracture fixation. The majority of midshaft clavicle fractures with a displaced fragment can be successfully repaired without surgery. On the other hand, conservative therapy of Robinson type 2B clavicle fracture has been linked to a higher rate of nonunion and a decrease in strength and endurance of the shoulder. In this patient, on the two-week follow-up after wire removal surgery, the patient regained full shoulder range of motion without any limitation on activities of daily living with a minimal post-operative scar.Conclusion: We recommend that intramedullary fixation using K-wires is a useful technique in displaced midshaft clavicle fracture as it is effective, has a good cosmetic outcome, and is well-suited for the BPJS era as it had the low-cost burden.

Comparative effectiveness of treatment options for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures : a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

AimsThe aims of this network meta-analysis (NMA) were to examine nonunion rates and functional outcomes following various operative and nonoperative treatments for displaced mid-shaft clavicle fractures.MethodsInitial search strategy incorporated MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Four treatment arms were created: nonoperative (NO); intramedullary nailing (IMN); reconstruction plating (RP); and compression/pre-contoured plating (CP). A Bayesian NMA was conducted to compare all treatment options for outcomes of nonunion, malunion, and function using the Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Constant-Murley Shoulder Outcome scores.ResultsIn all, 19 RCTs consisting of 1,783 clavicle fractures were included in the NMA. All surgical options demonstrated a significantly lower odds ratio (OR) of nonunion in comparison to nonoperative management: CP versus NO (OR 0.08; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04 to 0.17); IMN versus NO (OR 0.07; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.19); RP versus NO (OR 0.07; 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.24). Compression plating was the only treatment to demonstrate significantly lower DASH scores relative to NO at six weeks (mean difference -10.97; 95% CI -20.69 to 1.47).ConclusionSurgical fixation demonstrated a lower risk of nonunion compared to nonoperative management. Compression plating resulted in significantly less disability early after surgery compared to nonoperative management. These results demonstrate possible early improved functional outcomes with compression plating compared to nonoperative treatment. Surgical fixation of mid-shaft clavicle fractures with compression plating may result in quicker return to activity by rendering patients less disabled early after surgery.Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(8):646–654.

Effects of Internal Fixation for Mid-Shaft Clavicle Fractures on Shoulder Kinematics During Humeral Elevations.

BackgroundMid-shaft clavicle fractures account for 35 to 44% of injuries to the shoulder girdle. There is increasing evidence to support surgical repair, but poor functional outcomes have been reported, and associated factors remain unclear.MethodsThe three-dimensional poses of the shoulder bones during arm elevations were measured in 15 patients treated for mid-shaft clavicle fractures by open reduction and internal fixation, and in 15 healthy controls.Results and ConclusionNo significant between-side differences were found in the clavicle length after surgery (p > 0.05). The patients showed increased scapular protraction at lower elevation angles and reduced scapular retraction at higher elevation angles during frontal-plane elevations, with significantly reduced clavicle retraction (p < 0.05), with unaltered scapular rotation and tilt. The ranges of the observed changes were reduced to arm elevations at 60° and 90° in the scapular and sagittal planes. Similar changes were also found on the unaffected side, suggesting symmetrical bilateral compensation. The results suggest that shoulder kinematics in multi-plane arm elevations should be monitored for any signs of compromised bone motions following surgical treatment, and that rehabilitative training may be needed on both sides to improve the bilateral movement control of the shoulder complex.

Residual coracoclavicular separation after plate fixation for distal clavicle fractures: comparison between fracture patterns.

BackgroundPlate fixation is an established treatment for Neer type II and V distal clavicle fractures; however, residual coracoclavicular (C-C) separation after osteosynthesis for unstable distal clavicle fractures has rarely been discussed. This study aimed to reveal the extent of postoperative C-C separation after plate fixation for distal clavicle fractures and to evaluate the relationship between residual C-C separation and the risk of postoperative complications.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 60 patients with a displaced distal clavicle fracture that was treated with a Scorpion plate without C-C reconstruction and successfully united. Distal clavicle fractures were divided as per the Neer classification into type IIA (12 patients), IIB (36 patients), and V (12 patients) groups. The modified C-C distance ratio at the time of injury and after bone union, and the postoperative complications (plate-related pain, delayed union, infection, and contracture) were compared among the three groups.ResultsThe mean postoperative modified C-C distance ratio was 115.0% ± 12.0%; this ratio was significantly larger in the type IIB and V groups than in the type IIA group (P = .021 and P = .006, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in the frequency of postoperative complications among the three groups.ConclusionsOur study demonstrated that a certain degree of C-C separation remained after plate fixation for Neer type II and V distal clavicle fractures, even when bone union was achieved. The postoperative residual C-C separation was greater for the type IIB and V groups than for the type IIA group; however, this difference may not affect postoperative complications.

288 Management of Lateral Third Clavicle Fractures: A Five-Year Review in a Regional Trauma Unit

Abstract Introduction Due to an increased risk of complications, lateral clavicle fractures are usually managed operatively. Unfortunately, there is no consensus on the optimal method of fixation. Method We assessed practice in our regional trauma unit by retrospectively identifying patients who underwent fixation of a lateral clavicle fracture between 1st August 2014 and 31st July 2019. Data was extracted from electronic care records and imaging systems. Results 44 patients were included, with the following demographics: mean age 26 years, 63.6% male, 65.9% high energy injury, and 68.2% Neer II fracture. The following operations were performed; hook plate fixation (HPF) = 10, locking plate fixation (LPF) = 16, coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction (CCLR) = 12, and LPF + CCLR = 6. Patients having LPF had a significantly larger post-operative coracoclavicular distance (7.6mm vs 13.5mm, p &amp;lt; 0.01), and a trend towards incomplete acromioclavicular joint reduction (50.0% vs 89.3%, p = 0.11). There was a significantly higher re-operation rate after HPF (100% vs 23.5%, p &amp;lt; 0.01). Conclusions In our unit there is no favoured method of fixation of lateral clavicle fractures. When LPF is used, there should be consideration of concomitant CCLR. The high rate of re-operation after HPF must be considered.

Distal clavicle fractures with “superior intact cortical bone”: minimally invasive surgery

Distal clavicle fractures represent 12%-26% of all clavicle fractures. For unstable cases, surgical fixation is the preferred method of treatment. To date, there is still controversy regarding the best fixation method with a high reoperation and complication rate reported. The purpose of this article is to describe a minimally invasive method for reduction and stabilization of displaced distal clavicle fractures, using cortical buttons. After standard preoperative preparation, a 3-cm incision is made at the coracoclavicular area. Using both coracoid and clavicle tunnels, fracture reduction and fixation is obtained using a cortical fixation button. Standard postoperative care is given. A total of 21 patients (19 men) with a mean age of 34.7 years were treated using this technique. The follow-up was between 6 and 41 months, with an average of 23.4 months. The mean simple shoulder test score was 79.4 (range 66-91.7), and the QuickDASH score was 11 (range 6.8-15.9). Consolidation of the fracture was confirmed at the 12-week follow-up radiography, with no cases of nonunion or malunion identified. No patients presented infection or complications at the surgical site. Implant removal was not needed in this series. All the patients returned to work. Minimally invasive button fixation of unstable distal clavicle fractures is a safe and reliable alternative treatment. The initial outcome report is promising with excellent clinical and radiological results and no complications or implant removals.

Complications of clavicle fracture surgery in patients with concomitant chest wall injury: a retrospective study

BackgroundThe impact of associated chest wall injuries (CWI) on the complications of clavicle fracture repair is unclear to date. This study aimed to investigate the complications after surgical clavicle fracture fixation in patients with and without different degrees of associated CWI.MethodsA retrospective review over a four-year period of patients who underwent clavicle fracture repair was conducted. A CWI and no-CWI group were distinguished, and the CWI group was subdivided into the minor-CWI (three or fewer rib fractures without flail chest) and complex-CWI (flail chest, four or more rib fractures) subgroup. Demographic data, classification of the clavicle fracture, number of rib fractures, and associated injuries were recorded. Overall complications included surgery-related complications and unplanned hospital readmissions. Univariate analysis and stepwise backward multivariate logistic regression were used to identify potential risk factors for complications.ResultsA total of 314 patients undergoing 316 clavicle fracture operations were studied; 28.7% of patients (90/314) occurred with associated CWI. Patients with associated CWI showed a significantly higher age, body mass index, and number of rib fractures. The overall and surgical-related complication rate were similar between groups. Unplanned 30-day hospital readmission rates were significantly higher in the complex-CWI group (p = 0.02). Complex CWI and number of rib fractures were both independent factor for 30-day unplanned hospital readmission (OR 1.59, 95% CI: 1.00–2.54 and OR 1.33, 95% CI: 1.06–1.68, respectively).ConclusionCWI did not affect surgery-related complications after clavicle fracture repair. However, complex-CWI may increase 30-day unplanned hospital readmission rates.

Are two plates better than one? A systematic review of dual plating for acute midshaft clavicle fractures.

BackgroundThe rate of operative fixation of acute midshaft clavicle fractures has exponentially increased in recent years; however, the rate of reoperation for symptomatic hardware removal remains high and the optimal fixation strategy unknown. This systematic review aimed to summarize available evidence for dual plating of acute displaced midshaft clavicle fractures.MethodsEMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed searches identified clinical studies evaluating dual plate fixation of acute midshaft clavicle fractures. Pooled analysis was performed using a random-effects model in RevMan 5.3.ResultsEleven studies including 672 patients were included. Hardware removal occurred in 4.4% and 12.3% of patients undergoing dual and single plate fixation, respectively. Compared to single plating, dual plating had significantly lower odds of hardware removal (P = 0.001) with no difference in union rates. There were no significant differences in reoperation (excluding hardware removal), complications, and patient-reported outcomes between the two groups (P > 0.05).ConclusionsThis study suggests that dual plating of acute displaced midshaft clavicle fractures may lead to lower rates of reoperation for symptomatic hardware removal without compromising fracture healing. Ultimately, well-designed randomized trials are needed to further investigate the findings from this systematic review.

Plate fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures for delayed union and non-union is a cost-effective intervention but functional deficits persist at long-term follow-up.

The primary aim of this study was to compare the long-term functional outcome of midshaft clavicle fracture fixation for delayed (≥3 month) and non-union (≥6 month) compared to a matched cohort of patients that achieved union with non-operative management. The secondary aim was to assess cost-effectiveness of fixation. A consecutive series of patients over 10-years were retrospectively reviewed using the QuickDASH, Oxford Shoulder Score and EuroQol five-dimension summary index (EQ-5D). These patients were compared to a matched cohort that achieved union after non-operative management using propensity score matching. Sixty patients (follow-up 79%, n = 60/76) at 4.1 years post-operative (1.1-10.0 years) had a QuickDASH of 16.5 (95% CI 11.6-21.5), Oxford Shoulder Score 41.5 (39.0-44.1) and EQ-5D 0.7621 (0.6822-0.8421). One in five patients were dissatisfied with their final outcome (n = 13/60). Functional outcome was inferior following fixation when compared to patients that united with non-operative management (QuickDASH 16.5 vs. 5.5, p < 0.001 and EQ-5D 0.7621 vs. 0.9073, p = 0.001). However, significant improvements were found when compared to pre-operative scores (QuickDASH p < 0.001 and EQ-5D p < 0.001). The cost per QALY for fixation was £5624.62 for the study cohort. Clavicle fixation for delayed and non-union is a cost-effective intervention but outcomes are worse compared to patients that unite with non-operative management.

Does a skin incision along Langer's lines reduce complications following fixation of displaced middle-third clavicle fractures?

Internal fixation of displaced middle-third clavicle fractures is a widely used treatment but is frequently associated with post-operative complications. The aim of this study is to investigate whether or not using a skin incision along Langer's lines, as opposed to a traditional transverse incision, reduces complications. We retrospectively reviewed data on 108 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of mid-shaft clavicle fractures between 2014 and 2018. Either an oblique incision along Langer's lines or a transverse incision was used according to surgeon's preference. A pre-contoured diaphyseal locking plate was used in all cases. We collected data on fracture classification, minor complications (irritation from plate, chest wall numbness, superficial wound infection) and major complications (irritation from plate necessitating metalwork removal, periprosthetic fracture, deep infection, neurovascular injury and non-union). Statistical analysis was performed using multivariant regression analysis and Fisher's exact tests. Fifty-seven patients underwent fixation using the oblique incision and 51 via the transverse incision. Age, gender and fracture pattern in the two groups were comparable. There were 14 minor and 6 major complications in the oblique group. In the transverse group, there were 16 minor and 5 major complications. The major complication rate was 10.5% in the oblique group and 9.8% in the transverse group. The overall major complication rate was 10.2%. No statistically significant difference in the rate of complications between the two groups was identified. Based on our data, an incision following Langer's lines does not reduce the rate of complications following fixation of displaced middle-third clavicle fractures.

Dual Motor Orthopaedic Drill Reduces Plunge and Provides Data for Safe and Accurate Screw Placement During Clavicle Fracture Fixation

The D-MOD system (SMARTDrill, Smart Medical Devices, Las Vegas, NV) contains a dual motor drill and a remotely linked tablet (Figure 1). The first drill motor spins a chuck similar to any drill but at a controlled revolution rate determined by the software (rpm). The second motor moves a harp and drill guide parallel to the axis of the drill bit controlling advancement of the bit. The second motor records the linear distance that the drill bit travels and provides continuous data back to the monitor.

A prospective study of management of middle shaft clavicle fracture in general population by precontoured locking compression plate

AIM: This study has been undertaken to study the role of precontoured locking compression plate in fixation of mid third clavicle fractures. Materials and Methods: We reviewed the results 20 cases of midshaft clavicle fracture treated with precontoured locking compression plate during period from September 2019 and September 2020 in JJM Medical College, Bapuji hospital and Chigateri general Hospital Davanagere. Results: Out of 20 patients operated with precontoured LCP, out of which one patient developed plate prominence, one had implant failure, none of them developed non-union. Union was evaluated clinically and radiographically. Conclusion: This implant has been provided with compression mechanism to achieve maximum compression, fast fracture healing and early mobilization.

Patient oriented outcome of surgical fixation of clavicle fractures in a rural tertiary care centre

Clavicle fracture is one of the most common bony injuries. They account for 2.6% to 4% of adult fractures and 35% of injuries to the shoulder girdle. Clavicular fractures have traditionally been treated non-operatively. Surgical treatment of acute midshaft fractures was not favored due to relatively frequent and serious complications. However, the prevalence of non-union or malunion in displaced midshaft clavicular fractures after conservative treatment is higher than previously presumed. Twenty-four patients with displaced clavicle fractures were treated with locking compression plate between October 2018 to September 2020 at Kamineni Institute of Medical Sciences, Narketpally. The duration of radiological union ranged from 12-16 weeks with the majority having union at 12 weeks (66.7%). The remaining (33.4%) had union at 16 weeks. Delayed union and nonunion cases were not observed in our study. The functional outcome assessment according to Constant Murley Scoring system showed excellent functional outcome in 75% and good functional outcome in 25% of the patients.

Evaluation of functional outcome following open reduction and internal fixation of clavicle fractures with anatomical locking compression plate

Evaluation of functional outcome following open reduction and internal fixation of clavicle fractures with anatomical locking compression plate

Functional outcome of midshaft clavicle fractures treated with a pre-contoured locking plate: A prospective study

Introduction: Traditionally, displaced mid clavicular fractures have been treated with conservative methods. Conservative methods like strapping gives mediocre results. The present study has been undertaken to study the role of pre-contoured locking compression plate in the fixation of mid-third clavicle fractures. Materials and Methods: 40 patients with mid-shaft clavicle fractures (Robinson 2B) with displacement >2 cms were treated with open reduction and internal fixation with a pre-contoured locking plate and functional outcome through 3 months was assessed. Results: Union was seen radiologically in all the fractures by 10-12 weeks. The average Constant-Murley score at 3 months was 93.5. None of our patients had complications like malunion, wound dehiscence, hardware irritation, early mechanical failure, incisional numbness, infections and neurovascular damage. There were 4 patients with hardware prominence, 2 cases of hypertrophic scar formation, 2 patients with delayed union at 18 weeks and 1 case of plate loosening. Conclusions: Pre-contoured locking plate fixation in displaced fractures of clavicle allows earlier return to a pain free functional shoulder. Keywords: Clavicle fracture, Middle third, Pre-contoured locking plate.