Midshaft Clavicle Fractures Research Articles

Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis with Mini-Open Technique and Supraclavicular Nerve Preservation Reduces Postoperative Numbness in Acute Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fracture

Background: Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) for clavicular shaft fracture yields favorable functional outcomes and results in less surgery-related soft tissue injury than other techniques. Anterior chest and shoulder skin numbness, a common complication after open reduction and plate fixation, is related to injury to the supraclavicular nerves. We propose MIPO combined with a mini-open approach without fluoroscopy for nerve preservation to minimize the risk of postoperative numbness compared with traditional open plating without nerve preservation. Methods: A total of 59 patients were retrospectively identified, with a follow-up period of 6 months. Thirty-two patients underwent MIPO with mini-open and nerve preservation technique (MIPO group), and 27 patients underwent traditional open plating without nerve preservation (open group). Constant–Murley shoulder outcome score, operation time, wound length, skin numbness, and number of implant removals were compared between the groups. Results: The MIPO group had significantly lower rates of anterior chest and shoulder skin numbness than the open group (MIPO: 12.5% vs. open: 55.6%; p < 0.001). Operation time was significantly longer in the MIPO group than in the open group (MIPO: 109.38 ± 18.83 vs. open: 81.48 ± 18.85; p < 0.001). Wound length was significantly shorter in the MIPO group than in the open group (MIPO: 4.73 ± 0.79 vs. open: 9.76 ± 1.64; p < 0.001). Both groups had similarly excellent Constant–Murley shoulder scores. There were significantly fewer implant removals in the MIPO group than in the open group (MIPO: 6.3% vs. open: 25.9%; p = 0.036). Neither group experienced any infection, implant failure, or nonunion. Conclusions: Our technique combining MIPO with the mini-open approach and supraclavicular nerve preservation yields a lower incidence of skin numbness than traditional open plating without nerve preservation.

Operative treatment of clavicle fractures results in more opioids prescribed as compared to non-operative management.

The operative treatment of mid-shaft clavicle fractures shows benefit in union rates, return to work, and lower pain scores relative to non-operative treatment. We sought to determine if the surgical treatment of isolated mid-shaft clavicle fractures would result in fewer opioids prescribed as compared to those managed non-operatively. All mid-shaft clavicle fractures treated at a Level 1 trauma center were identified from 2012 to 2016. Demographics, fracture characteristics, surgical complications/outcomes, non-operative outcomes, and all narcotics prescribed for 6 months post-injury were collected. Narcotic prescriptions, in morphine equivalents (ME), were obtained through the state prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP). One hundred and ten operative and 48 non-operative patients were included. Age, gender, previous alcohol, tobacco or drug use, and final range of motion were similar between groups. Pre-treatment fracture shortening (1.8cm vs. 0.7cm, p < 0.001) and displacement (150% vs. 70%, p < 0.001) were greater in the operative group. Total ME's (604 vs. 187, p < 0.001) and post-operative ME's (420 vs. 187, p < 0.001) were greater for the operative group. In either group, no other variable influenced ME's prescribed. Clavicles treated operatively receive substantially more opiates than those treated non-operatively, despite data suggesting that operative treatment makes clavicle fractures less painful. The total amount of narcotic analgesics obtained by operatively treated patients was over three times that obtained by non-operatively managed patients, which equates to 55 5mg oxycodone pills or 85 5mg hydrocodone pills per patient. While there may certainly be advantages to the operative treatment of clavicle fractures, they must be weighed against the risks of a significant increase in opiate prescribing and potential consumption.

Simultaneous Midshaft Clavicle Fracture with Ipsilateral Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation in Recreational Baseball Player: A Case Report

Simultaneous Midshaft Clavicle Fracture with Ipsilateral Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation in Recreational Baseball Player: A Case Report

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.

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.

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.

Superior versus anterior plating of midshaft clavicle fractures: 6 months follow up (union rates, risks, and complications: hardware irritation and need for removal)

Background Operative management of midshaft clavicle fractures is gaining popularity. The clavicle is a tubular bone with a flat lateral end. Open reduction and internal fixation could be achieved by the application of plates and screws either to the superior or anterior surface of the clavicle. However, there is no consensus in the literature to support one technique over the other. This study aims to compare the early functional and radiographic outcomes of anterior versus superior plating for the treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures. Patients and methods From March 2021 to November 2022, a prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted at our institute. We included all patients with isolated midshaft clavicle fractures. Thirty-six patients were randomized by the closed envelope technique, 18 were managed with superior plating (superior group), and the other 18 patients were managed using anterior plating (anterior group). All patients were followed up for 6 months. All patients were assessed clinically for union, range of motion, and functional scores. The secondary outcome measures included operative time, complications, hardware irritation, and the need for hardware removal or secondary procedure. Results The mean time to full union was 11.28 weeks in the anterior group and 11.72 weeks in the superior group. Mean constant shoulder score for the anterior group was 84.11 while for the superior group it was 82.67. No patients had skin and wound complications in the anterior group versus one patient in the superior group that got superficial infection successfully managed by repeated dressing and antibiotics. There was no statistically significant difference between superior and anterior plating regarding union, functional scores, return to ADLs, hardware problems, or complications. Conclusion Both superior and anterior plating of the clavicle fractures are safe treatment options for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures, and they lead to similar functional outcomes, functional scores, and complication rates. Moreover, the selection of the technique of plating depends on surgeon preferences.

Nonoperative Versus Operative Treatment of Z-Type Comminuted Clavicle Fractures in Adolescents: A Prospective Substratified Cohort Analysis.

To compare the clinical, radiographic, and patient-reported outcomes of nonoperative and operative treatment of adolescents with comminuted "Z-type" midshaft clavicle fractures. Prospective observational cohort. Eight tertiary care pediatric centers. Patients aged 10-18 years who were treated either operatively or nonoperatively for a diaphyseal clavicle fracture between 2013 and 2017 were screened/enrolled at the time of injury. The current subcohort analysis was derived from a larger adolescent clavicle study population of 907 patients. Complications and validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROs):(ASES, QuickDASH, Marx Shoulder Activity Score, EQ-5D, EQ-VAS, and patient satisfaction score) were compared between operative and nonoperative cohorts. Eighty-one patients (69 male [85.2%], 12 female; average age 15 years [11.1-18.7]; 78 with sports participation [96.2%]) were followed through bony healing and return to sports, while 59 patients (73%) completed 2-year follow-up with PROs, 26 of whom were treated nonoperatively and 33 treated operatively. All demographic and fracture characteristics were similar (P > 0.05) between the 2-year follow-up cohorts except for fracture shortening, which was greater in the operative cohort (23 vs. 29 mm, P = 0.01). After controlling for this potential confounder through both regression and propensity matched subgroup analysis, nonoperative versus operative cohorts showed no difference in rates of nonunion (0%), delayed union (0% vs. 2.3%, P = 1.0), symptomatic malunion (2.7% vs. 0%, P = 0.4), refracture (2.7% vs. 2.2%, P = 1.0), unexpected subsequent surgery (5.4% vs. 11.4%, P = 0.45), or clinically significant complications (5.4% vs. 16%, P = 0.17). There were no differences in any PROs between cohorts, both before and after controlling for the difference in fracture shortening (all P-values >0.05). In this prospective comparison of complications and 2-year PROs in adolescents with comminuted Z-type clavicle fractures, nonoperative and operative treatment yielded similar outcomes. Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

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.

Biomechanical Design Optimization of Clavicle Midshaft Fracture Plates: A Review

Biomechanical Design Optimization of Clavicle Midshaft Fracture Plates: A Review

Management of midshaft clavicle fracture and ipsilateral acromioclavicular joint dislocation through combination of reconstruction locking plate and clavicular hook locking plate: an exposition of case series and literature review

Management of midshaft clavicle fracture and ipsilateral acromioclavicular joint dislocation through combination of reconstruction locking plate and clavicular hook locking plate: an exposition of case series and literature review

Do postoperative outcomes vary between midshaft clavicle fractures of 2, 3, or more than 3 fragments?

This study aims to assess differences in clinical and surgical outcomes associated with the surgical treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures of different complexities based on fragment number. Additionally, the investigation seeks to present the outcomes of a series of patients who underwent surgery at our institution. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of patients aged over 18 who underwent midshaft clavicle fracture surgery at our center from November 2009 to May 2021. Patients were categorized based on the number of fracture fragments into groups of two, three, or more than three fragments. Consolidation, implant removal, complications, surgical duration, and functional outcomes (assessed through VAS, ASES, and Constant-Murley scale) were evaluated for each specific group and for the overall cohort. In total, 260 patients were analyzed. There were no significant differences in any of the parameters between the three groups except for surgical time, which was shorter in simple fractures than in those with more than three fragments (68.2min vs. 75.3min; p = 0.01). Pseudoarthrosis rate was 2.69%, implant removal rate was 9.61%, and 4.23% of patients presented with complications other than the previous ones. Functional results were excellent, with averages of 97.3 (72.7-100) for the ASES score, 97.5 (75-100) for the Constant score, and 0.6 (0-8) on the VAS. According to our results, there were no differences in postoperative results between simple and multifragmentary midshaft clavicle fractures. Patients across all groups reported satisfactory results.

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

Clavicle fractures represent 2.5-4% of all fractures observed in emergency services. 80% occurs in the middle third. Treatment by plating requires a higher level of evidence. To compare the functional outcomes of mid-shaft clavicle fractures managed with superior plating compared to anteroinferior plating. A randomized, double-blind, parallel, superiority clinical trial. Patients with fractures of the clavicles AO15B1 and AO15B2 were studied. Patients were randomized to be treated with either 3.5 mm superior or anteroinferior plating. A rehabilitation program was designed for both groups. The primary outcome measure was the Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score; secondary outcomes included pain, union rate, and complication rates. Twenty-eight patients were studied and were eligible for analysis. Significant differences were found in the function assessed with the DASH score at 30 days for the superior plating compared with anteroinferior (43.74 vs. 29.26, respectively, p = 0.027), 60 days (23.97 vs. 11.18, p = 0.021), and 90 days (9.52 vs. 3.5, p = 0.016). One loosening with superficial infection was found with superior plating. Using an anteroinferior reconstruction plate in diaphyseal fractures offers better functional results than the upper plate in patients with fractures of the middle third of the clavicle.

Comprehensive comparison between conservative therapy and surgical management for completely displaced and comminuted mid-shaft clavicle fractures

PurposeIt is still controversial whether complete displaced mid-shaft clavicle fractures should be treated with internal fixation or conservative therapy. This retrospective study aims to compare clinical outcomes of two treatment protocols.Materials and methods105 patients with displaced and comminuted mid-shaft clavicle fractures were included in this study, among which 55 patients were treated conservatively and 50 patients accepted surgical fixation and were followed up for over 20 months on average. Rate of union, malunion, time taken for union, functional outcome, self-reported satisfaction and complications were compared.ResultsUnion rate of operative group (n=49, 98.0%) was higher than the non-operative group (n=48, 87.3%). Time taken for union in operative group (2.37±1.06 months) was shorter than the non-operative group (3.69±1.01 months). Malunion and asymmetric were only seen in the conservative group. Numbness of the shoulder was only reported in the operative group (n=23, 46.0%). Most of patients in the operative group (n=45, 90%) accepted a second operation to remove the implant. No statistically difference was found in self-reported satisfaction, Quick-DASH and Constant-Murley score. The operative group returned to work faster (1.47±0.89 to 3.34±1.37 months), regained full range of motion earlier (1.66±0.78 to 3.83±1.24 months) and regained strength faster (3.86±2.45 to 8.03±2.78 months) than the non-operative group.ConclusionComplete displaced and comminuted mid-shaft clavicle fractures treated surgically have more reliable union and faster recovery when compared to conservatively treated fractures.

Changes in Fracture Shortening Occur in the First 2 Weeks Following Completely Displaced Adolescent Clavicle Fractures.

Shortening of midshaft clavicle fractures has been described as a critical fracture characteristic to guide treatment. The degree to which shortening may change in the initial weeks following injury has not been well studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change in shortening of adolescent clavicle fractures in the first 2 weeks following injury. This was a multicenter study of prospectively collected data, which was acquired as a part of a cohort study of adolescent clavicle fractures. A consecutive series of patients 10 to 18 years of age with completely displaced diaphyseal clavicle fractures with baseline radiographs 0 to 6 days from the date of injury, as well as 7 to 21 days from the date of injury, were included. Measurements of end-to-end (EES) and cortex-to-corresponding-cortex (CCS) shortening were performed. A total of 142 patients were included. Baseline radiographs were obtained at a mean of 1.0 day following injury with mean EES of 22.3mm, and 69% of patients demonstrating > 20mm of shortening. Follow-up radiographs obtained at a mean of 13.8 days postinjury demonstrated a mean absolute change in EES of 5.4mm. Forty-one percentage of patients had >5mm of change in EES. When analyzing changes in shortening relative to the specific threshold of 20mm, 18 patients (41%) with <20mm EES increased to ≥20mm EES, and 19 patients (19%) with ≥20mm EES decreased to <20mm EES at 2-week follow-up. Clinically significant changes in fracture shortening occurred in 41% of adolescents with completely displaced clavicle fractures in the first 2 weeks after injury. In 26% of patients, this resulted in a change from above or below the commonly used shortening threshold of 20mm, potentially altering the treatment plan by many providers. There is no evidence to suggest that adolescent clavicle fracture shortening affects outcomes, and as such, the authors do not advocate for the use of this parameter to guide treatment. However, among physicians who continue to use this parameter to guide treatment, this study supports that repeat radiographic assessment 2 weeks postinjury may be a better measure of the true shortening of this common adolescent injury. Level IV-case series.

A Prospective Comparative Study: Comparing Titanium Elastic Nailing to Anatomical Plating for Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fractures

A Prospective Comparative Study: Comparing Titanium Elastic Nailing to Anatomical Plating for Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fractures

Immediate Weight-bearing Through Walker or Crutches After Surgical Fixation of Clavicle Fractures in Patients With Lower Extremity Fractures: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

To assess the safety of immediate upper extremity weight-bearing as tolerated (WBAT) rehabilitation protocol after clavicle fracture open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). Retrospective cohort study. Three Level 1 trauma centers. Patients older than 18 years who had ORIF of mid-shaft clavicle fractures and lower extremity fractures who were allowed immediate WBAT on their affected upper extremity through use of a walker or crutches were included. All clavicles were fixed with either precontoured clavicular plates or locking compression plates. Included patients were those who had clinical/radiographic follow-up until fracture union, nonunion, or construct failure. WBAT patients were matched in a one-to-one fashion to a cohort with isolated clavicle fractures who were treated non-weight-bearing (NWB) postoperatively on their affected upper extremity. Matching was done based on age, sex, and temporality of fixation. After matching, treatment and control groups were compared to determine differences in possible confounding variables that could influence the primary outcome, including patient demographics, fracture classification, cortices of fixation, and construct type. All patients were assessed to verify conformity with weight-bearing recommendation. Primary outcome was early hardware failure (HWF) with or without revision surgery. Secondary outcomes included postoperative infections and union of fracture. Thirty-nine patients were included in the WBAT cohort; there were no significant differences with the matched NWB cohort based on patient demographics. Both the WBAT and the NWB cohorts had 2.5% chance of acute HWF that required surgical intervention ( P = 1.0). Additionally, there was no difference in overall HWF ( P = 0.49). All patients despite weight-bearing status including those who required revision ORIF for acute HWF had union of their fracture ( P = 1.0). Our data would support that immediate weight-bearing after clavicle fracture fixation in patients with concomitant lower extremity trauma does not lead to an increase in HWF or impact ultimate union. This challenges the dogma of prolonged postoperative weight-bearing restrictions and allow for earlier rehabilitation. Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.