Neer Type Research Articles

Displacement of the Greater Tuberosity in Humeral Head Fractures Does Not only Depend on Rotator Cuff Status.

It is assumed that dorsocranial displacement of the greater tuberosity in humeral head fractures is caused by rotator cuff traction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between rotator cuff status and displacement characteristics of the greater tuberosity in four-part humeral head fractures. Computed tomography scans of 121 patients with Neer type 4 fractures were analyzed. Fatty infiltration of the supra- and infraspinatus muscles was classified according to Goutallier. Position determination of the greater tuberosity fragment was performed in both coronary and axial planes to assess the extent of dorsocranial displacement. Considering non-varus displaced fractures, the extent of the dorsocranial displacement was significantly higher in patients with mostly inconspicuous posterosuperior rotator cuff status compared to advanced fatty degenerated cuffs (cranial displacement: Goutallier 0–1: 6.4 mm ± 4.6 mm vs. Goutallier 2–4: 4.2 mm ± 3.5 mm, p = 0.020; dorsal displacement: Goutallier 0–1: 28.4° ± 32.3° vs. Goutallier 2–4: 13.1° ± 16.1°, p = 0.010). In varus displaced humeral head fractures, no correlation between the displacement of the greater tuberosity and the condition of the posterosuperior rotator cuff could be detected (p ≥ 0.05). The commonly accepted theory of greater tuberosity displacement in humeral head fractures by rotator cuff traction cannot be applied to all fracture types.

The Management of Distal Clavicle Fractures - A Survey of UK Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons.

BackgroundDistal clavicle fractures (DCF) are a management challenge frequently encountered by shoulder surgeons. Despite an array of surgical fixation strategies, the indications and role of surgery are unclear, with there being no gold standard or consensus regarding their management. The aim of this study was to identify current United Kingdom (UK) clinical practices relating to DCFs and to inform a future randomised control trial (RCT).MethodsAn online survey was sent to the consultant surgeon members of the British Elbow and Shoulder Society (BESS). Questions covered respondent indications for surgical fixation, important factors considered for management of DCFs, fixation strategies, the volume of patients treated, and willingness to participate in the conduct of a randomized trial.ResultsThe response rate was 84/327 (26%). 64-67% of respondents reported surgically managing DCFs classified as Neer type 2A, 2B and 5. The most important factors considered by surgeons when deciding between operative and nonoperative intervention were degree of displacement (90%), clinical assessment of impending open fracture (87%), and age of the patient (74%). For conservatively managed DCFs, the preferred length of complete immobilization was 2-4 weeks (46%), followed by 4-8 weeks (17%). 30% reported not immobilizing their patients at all. For operative intervention, the locking plate was the preferred fixation method by most respondents (68%), although there was no clear consensus regarding other fixation methods. Most surgeons (52%) reported treating a low volume of patients with DCFs (0-10) per year. 58% of respondents were willing to randomize patients to non-operative treatment in a multi-centre RCT, with a further 22% undecided. Finally, 68% (n=79) of respondents would consider being co-investigators in such a trial.ConclusionThere is considerable heterogeneity in the management of patients with DCFs in the UK. The indications for surgery and the optimal surgical fixation method remain uncertain. There is a clear need for pragmatic multi-centre clinical research in this area.

Clavicular hook plate with coracoclavicular ligament augmentation by suture anchor in the treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures

To evaluate the effectiveness of a clavicular hook plate with coracoclavicular ligament augmentation by suture anchor in the treatment of Neer types Ⅱ and Ⅴ distal clavicle fractures. Between January 2010 and June 2016, 16 patients with Neer types Ⅱ and Ⅴ distal clavicle fractures were treated with clavicle hook plates and coracoclavicular ligament augmentation by suture anchor. There were 12 males and 4 females with an average age of 45.6 years (range, 14-81 years). The injury mechanism included falling in 10 cases, traffic accident injury in 2 cases, falling from height in 2 cases, and heavy object injury in 2 cases. The Neer classification of clavicle fractures included 2 cases of type Ⅱa, 13 cases of type Ⅱb, and 1 case of type Ⅴ. The injury severity score (ISS) was 6-29, with an average of 11.2. The time from injury to operation was 1-18 days, with an average of 6.4 days. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hospitalization stay, fracture healing, and postoperative complications were recorded; the disability of arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score, the shoulder joint Constant score, and the Oxford shoulder score (OSS) were used to evaluate the shoulder joint at last follow-up. All operations were successfully completed. The operation time was 50-100 minutes, with an average of 75.6 minutes; intraoperative blood loss was 30-100 mL, with an average of 52.8 mL; hospitalization stay was 4-47 days, with an average of 13.7 days. All patients were followed up 1.2-7.5 years, with an average of 3.5 years. All clavicle fractures healed, and the healing time was 9.4-13.6 weeks, with an average of 11.9 weeks. No fracture nonunion, fracture displacement, failure of internal fixation, or incision infection, etc. occurred. Fifteen patients took out the hook plate after fracture healing and functional recovery, and 1 case refused to remove the hook plate from the second operation because of no obvious discomfort. At last follow-up, the DASH score was 0-13, with an average of 2.2; the shoulder joint Constant score was 90-100, with an average of 96.8; the OSS score was 12-14, with an average of 12.3. Clavicular hook plate with coracoclavicular ligament augmentation by suture anchor can help achieve good effectiveness with less postoperative complication in the treatment of Neer types Ⅱ and Ⅴ distal clavicular fractures.

Risk factors for clavicular midshaft fractures after hook plate fixation for the treatment of Neer type II clavicular fractures.

ObjectiveNeer type II fractures are common, and hook plate fixation is one of the recommended treatments. Although clavicular midshaft fractures after hook plate fixation are rare, such fractures increase patients’ suffering and worsen their functional outcomes. This study was performed to identify the risk factors for this complication.MethodsFrom 2009 to 2018, 425 patients were admitted with Neer type II clavicular fractures. According to the selection criteria, 352 patients were included in this retrospective observational study. All patients were divided into either the complications group (patients with midshaft fractures) or the control group (patients without midshaft fractures). Data collected included patient demographics and surgical, hook plate, and screw characteristics. The chi-square test was used to conduct between-group comparisons of risk factors. Statistically significant variables were included in a logistic regression model.ResultsIn both the complications group (n = 21) and control group (n = 331), significantly more patients of advanced age and significantly more patients treated with hook plates that were not bent during surgery developed midshaft fractures.ConclusionThe risk of a clavicular midshaft fracture after hook plate fixation may be significantly increased by advanced age or a lack of hook plate bending.

Arthroscopic coracoclavicular button fixation versus anatomic locking plate fixation for unstable distal clavicular fractures.

HypothesisNeer type II distal clavicle fractures are unstable and associated with high nonunion rates. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of anatomic locking plate fixation and arthroscopic coracoclavicular button fixation for unstable distal clavicle fractures.MethodsForty-seven patients with Neer type II distal clavicle fractures were treated surgically using either anatomic locking plate fixation (group 1, n = 20) or all arthroscopic coracoclavicular button fixation (group 2, n = 27) between 2012 and 2019 in 2 centers. Clinical and radiographic outcomes after an average follow-up period of 49 months for group 1 and 32 months for group 2 were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder score, Constant-Murley score, visual analog scale score and X-rays.ResultsAt the final follow-up, the mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder score, Constant-Murley score, and visual analog scale score for group 1 and group 2 were 92.5 ± 3.9 (range 88.3-98.3), 93.6 ± 4.0 (range 90-100), and 0.6 ± 0.6 (range 0-2) and 95 ± 3.3 (range 86.6-100), 96.2 ± 3.0 (range 88-100), and 0.4 ± 0.5 (range 0-1), respectively (P = .32, P = .15, and P = .59, respectively). At the final follow-up, acceptable reduction and bone healing were achieved in all patients. All patients in both groups were able to resume work as well as sports activities. Postoperative complications included 1 case of acromioclavicular joint arthritis and 1 case of screw penetration in group 1 and 2 cases of coracoid process fracture that did not require additional surgery in group 2. Five patients underwent hardware removal owing to skin irritation and dissatisfaction with the cosmetic appearance in group 1.ConclusionBoth distal anatomic locking plate fixation and arthroscopic coracoclavicular button fixation provide satisfactory functional and radiological outcomes. Both procedures can be used to treat distal clavicle fractures because they have a minimal risk of complications and present similar, high union rates.

Functional Outcome and Complications in Management of Proximal Humerus Fractures Operated with Proximal Humerus Locking Plate.

Introduction:Controversies exist in treatment of proximal humerus fractures as treatment options vary greatly from conservative management, closed pinning, stacked intramedullary nails, plating and hemi-arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is to study the fracture patterns of each case and document the functional outcome and complications post-operative in the management of proximal humerus fractures operated with proximal humerus plate.Material and Methods:Thirty five patients with closed proximal humerus fractures, above 18 years old, admitted in our tertiary care hospital during the study period were enrolled. Patients underwent open reduction internal fixation with proximal humerus locking plate under general anaesthesia. Post-operative patients were assessed using Constant and DASH scores. Complications were recorded.Results:In our study the absolute Constant score of the study population increases at three months and six months and was found to be significant. Mean Constant score for 4-part fractures was 45.6 which were inferior as compared to 2-part and 3-part fractures (43.1 and 44.6, respectively). The mean Constant score at six months was 51.80 +/- 6.71. All three types of proximal humerus fractures showed significant improvement in the mean DASH score over our study period of six months and was found to be significant. Mean DASH score at six months was 27.97+/-12.84. Out of the 35 cases in the study two had complications. One had implant failure (Neer’s type 3, 60-year-old female) and one had varus collapse (Neer’s type 3, 45-year-old male).Conclusion:Due to angular stability and effective maintenance of the intraoperative fracture reduction during follow-up period, early post-operative mobilisation is possible which helps the patient to attain better shoulder range of motion and return to activity faster.

Prospective study of clinico radiological outcome of distal end clavicle fractures treated with hook plate

Background & Objectives: Clavicle fracture is the commonest fracture amongst adults and roughly a quarter of all clavicle fractures occur at the lateral end [1]. These fractures are unstable due to the various deforming forces which act on the fragments as well as the small distal fracture fragment. At most times the deforming forces are not taken into consideration, and the fracture is not fixed securely. In this study, we assessed a fixation technique using the lateral end clavicle hook plates to find out whether it provided a stable fixation with good functional outcome. Methods: This study is a prospective, hospital based study conducted in Anil Neerukonda Hospital and NRI Institute of Medical Sciences, Visakhpatnam, between May 2018 to May 2021. The fractures were classified according to Neer’s classification and were followed up at regular intervals.In total, 12 patients with lateral end clavicle fracture (Neer's Type II) were included in the study. After the informed consent and preoperative investigations were obtained, open reduction and internal fixation was done using a 3.5 mm lateral end clavicular hook plate under regional anesthesia. Postoperative X-rays were done on day 1 and every 6 weeks after operation, until radiological union was achieved. The postoperative pain was assessed using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) on postoperative days 1, 2 and 10. Postoperatively arm pouch sling was given for 10 days followed by active mobilization. Patients were asked to do their daily routine work and avoid lifting heavy weights. The functional outcome was assessed at the end of 2nd and 6th months with the help of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scoring. Results: There were no intraoperative complications in the procedure. The mean VAS score on postoperative day 1 was found to be 5 which decreased to 3 on day 2 and 0 on day 10. The mean DASH score was calculated as 10.58 at the end of postoperative month 2 and then 4.2 at the end of month 6. There was one case of superficial infection which was resolved with local debridement, there was initial restriction of overhead abduction in this case but was not painful and was managed conservatively. Conclusion: Lateral end clavicular hook plate is a good fixation system for lateral end clavicle fractures. Operative time is reduced and surgical dissection is minimum. Device provides good angular stability and helps in early mobilization. It may well be the answer to the fixation questions of the lateral clavicle fractures, although larger comparative studies between the surgical treatment methods are required to confirm the same.

Treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures (Neer type IIb): a modified system using a miniature locking plate with a single button.

Distal clavicle fractures are common in patients with shoulder injuries. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical outcomes of a novel fixation technique using a miniature locking plate with a single button in patients with distal clavicle fractures associated with coracoclavicular ligament disruption. The study involved seven patients with distal clavicle fractures with a follow-up period of 12 months. All patients were diagnosed with type IIb fractures according to the Neer classification. The distal clavicle fracture was fixed with a miniature locking plate, and the coracoclavicular ligaments were reconstructed using a single button. Functional outcomes were assessed at the final follow-up visit. At the 1-year follow-up, all patients had achieved radiographic union. There were no cases of nonunion or osteolysis. The mean Constant score at the final follow-up was 88 ± 5.13 (range, 78–93); the mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 19.17 ± 7.70 (range, 11.67–25); and the mean University of California Los Angeles score was 30 ± 2.52 (range, 25–33). In summary, internal fixation using a miniature locking plate and coracoclavicular reconstruction with a single button is a reliable surgical technique for restoring stability in patients with Neer type IIb distal clavicle fractures.

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.

Additional coracoclavicular augmentation reduces revision rates in the treatment of lateral clavicle fractures as compared to angle-stable plate osteosynthesis alone.

There is no uniform approach to the management of lateral clavicle fractures. Recent studies have investigated additive coracoclavicular (CC) augmentation as a treatment option; however, it is unclear whether it is superior to conventional locking plate osteosynthesis. We carried out a retrospective analysis of 40 patients with lateral clavicle fracture (Neer type IIb) who were treated between 2014 and 2017 with either a hybrid locking plate osteosynthesis/additive arthroscopy-assisted CC augmentation (HP) procedure or a locking plate osteosynthesis only (PO) approach to determine which strategy was more effective. At follow-up, subjective shoulder value, age- and sex-adjusted Constant-Murley score, Taft (TF) score, American Shoulder and Elbow score, Nottingham clavicle score, and Visual Analogue Scale score were compared between patient groups. A radiologic evaluation was also conducted. A total of 14/17 patients (83%; 9 male/5 female, mean age: 43 ± 15years) were followed up in the PO group. The mean follow-up time was 29 ± 12.4months. In the HP group, 17/23 patients (74%; 9 male/8 female, mean age: 43 ± 17years) were followed up, with a mean follow-up time of 18 ± 7.1months. There were no significant differences in clinical parameters between the HP and PO groups; notably, the shoulder girdle-specific TF score was comparable in the 2 groups (HP: 11.3 ± 1.1 points and PO: 10.9 ± 0.9 points). In the HP group, additional pathologies were identified and arthroscopically treated in 35% of cases. Radiologic examination revealed a significant difference between pre- and postoperative CC distance in the HP group (P = 0.001). Additive CC augmentation in combination with locking plate osteosynthesis seems to improve the vertical stability and reduces the revision rate in patients with a lateral clavicle fracture. Furthermore, an arthroscopy-assisted procedure allows for an intraoperative detection and single-step treatment of accompanying intraarticular pathologies.

Clinical outcomes of a combined osteoligamentous reconstruction technique of Neer Type IIB distal clavicle fractures

PurposeTo evaluate outcomes for a combined osteoligamentous reconstruction technique for Neer Type IIB clavicle fractures. MethodsPatients with Neer Type IIB clavicle fractures treated with combined clavicular locking plate and coracoclavicular ligament suture reconstruction were identified. Demographics, clinical outcomes, and radiographic outcomes were collected. ResultsTwenty-four patients with mean 13 months of follow-up were included. Bony union and normal radiographic coracoclavicular relationship were achieved in 23 (96%) patients. The mean UCLA Shoulder score was 33.3. Three (13%) complications occurred. DiscussionThe combined osteoligamentous reconstruction approach as described is a successful option for treating Neer Type IIB clavicle fractures.

Outcomes of Arthroscopic Fixation of Unstable Distal Clavicle Fractures: A Systematic Review.

Background:Surgical management of unstable distal clavicle fractures (DCFs) remains controversial. Traditional open techniques result in acceptable union rates but are fraught with complications. In response to these limitations, arthroscopic techniques have been developed; however, clinical outcome data are limited.Purpose:The primary purpose was to systematically evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of arthroscopic fixation of unstable DCFs. The secondary purpose was to characterize the overall complication rate, focusing on major complications and subsequent reoperations.Study Design:Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:A systematic review of the literature was performed following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and included a search of the PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, and Scopus databases. English-language studies between 2008 and 2019 that reported on outcomes of patients with DCFs who underwent operative fixation using an arthroscopic or arthroscopically assisted surgical technique were included. Data consisted of patient characteristics, fracture type, surgical technique, concomitant injuries, union rates, functional outcomes, and complications.Results:A total of 15 studies consisting of 226 DCFs treated using an arthroscopically based technique were included in the systematic review. The majority of fractures were classified as Neer type II. Most (97%) of the fractures underwent arthroscopic fixation using a cortical button coracoclavicular stabilization surgical technique. Bony union was reported in 94.1% of the fractures. Good to excellent outcomes were recorded in most patients at the final follow-up. The Constant-Murley score was the most widely used functional outcome score; the pooled mean Constant score was 93.06 (95% CI, 91.48-94.64). Complications were reported in 14 of the 15 studies, and the overall complication rate was 27.4%. However, only 12% of these were considered major complications, and only 6% required a reoperation for hardware-related complications.Conclusion:Arthroscopic fixation of DCFs resulted in good functional outcomes with union rates comparable to those of traditional open techniques. While the overall complication profile was similar to that of other described techniques, there was a much lower incidence of major complications, including hardware-related complications and reoperations.

Osteosynthesis Using the Anatomical Plate With Grasping Arms for Unstable Distal Clavicle Fractures: A Technical Trick and Clinical Experience.

Plate fixation is an established method of treating distal clavicle fractures. However, it is often difficult to maintain the reduction of distal fragments with conventional plates, especially in cases where the distal fragments are small or comminuted. This study aimed to introduce a technical trick and clinical experience of osteosynthesis using an anatomical nonlocking plate with grasping arms (SCORPION NEO plate) for unstable distal clavicle fractures. During fixation, distal fragments are grasped by the plate arms and fixed with 2 screws. We retrospectively reviewed 41 patients who underwent osteosynthesis for unstable distal clavicle fractures (Neer type 2 and 5) using a SCORPION NEO plate. Patients were divided into 2 groups: type unstable 1, where the trapezoid ligament adhered to a distal fragment, and type unstable II (UII), where the trapezoid ligament adhered to a third fragment detached from a distal fragment. Although delayed union, plate loosening, plate-related pain, infection, and stiffness were observed in 2 (4.9%), 2 (4.9%), 3 (7.3%), 1 (2.4%), and 1 patient (2.4%), respectively; all fractures united at the time of final follow-up. Operating time for the UII group was significantly longer than that for the UI group. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in postoperative complications and coracoclavicular distance ratios at the time of bone union. Our results demonstrated that osteosynthesis with the anatomical plate with grasping arms could be a viable option in the treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures, especially in cases where distal fragments are not contiguous with the trapezoid ligament.

Surgical Versus Nonsurgical Treatment of Lateral Clavicle Fractures: A Short-Term Follow-Up of Treatment and Complications in 122 Patients.

To assess the total number of procedures in initially surgically and nonsurgically treated patients with lateral clavicle fractures and to compare patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Retrospective cohort study. Level 1 trauma center. One hundred twenty-two patients with lateral clavicle fractures treated at Uppsala University Hospital from 2013 to 2015 were included in a patient record review. A subgroup of 30 patients was assessed at a study follow-up visit at a median of 3 years postinjury. Comparisons between initially surgically and nonsurgically treated patients. Rates of surgical treatment, reoperations, and delayed surgeries. PROM subgroup: Constant score; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score; and Visual Analog Scale over satisfaction with the cosmetic results and interview-based information on subjective complaints and reflections. Of 23 surgically treated patients (22 Neer type II and V fractures), 10 underwent subsequent implant removal, after which 1 developed symptomatic nonunion. Of 99 nonsurgically treated patients (36 Neer type II and V fractures), 2 underwent delayed surgery because of symptomatic nonunion. In the PROM subgroup, the surgically treated patients had worse Constant scores, complained of infraclavicular sensory deficits, and were less satisfied with the cosmetic result than the nonsurgically treated patients. Half of the surgically treated patients underwent implant removal, whereas delayed surgeries in nonsurgically treated patients were very rare. Nonsurgical treatment should be considered more often as an alternative to surgery even for the usually surgically treated Neer type II and V lateral clavicle fractures. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Locking plate combined with titanium cable for Neer type II distal clavicle fractures

BackgroundThere is controversy about the optimal strategy treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures. We explored use of a surgical strategy: combination of a distal clavicle locking plate and a titanium cable. The purpose of this retrospective case series study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of this new strategy in treating Neer type II distal clavicle fractures.MethodsTwenty-one patients with Neer type II distal clavicle fracture were treated with a distal clavicle locking plate and a titanium cable. All patients were followed for at least one year. We retrospectively collected and reviewed follow-up data. The clinical outcomes were assessed for union rate, functional score, and complication rate.ResultsAll patients achieved bony union within 6 months. The average follow-up period was 20.6 months (range12–48 months). The mean Constant score at one-year follow-up was 94.6 ± 3.3 (range 84–98), and the mean UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) score was 33.3 ± 2.6 (range 27–35). Only one complication (wound infection) was observed during follow-up. Two patients received another operation for implant removal due to local irritation.ConclusionsUse of a distal clavicle locking plate in combination with a titanium cable for treatment of Neer type II fractures results in high union rate, a low complication rate, and good shoulder function. This combined surgical strategy can be considered an effective method for treating unstable distal clavicle fractures.

Treatment of distal clavicle fracture of Neer type II with locking plate in combination with titanium cable under the guide

To observe and compare the curative effect of a locking plate plus titanium cable under the Guide device and clavicular hook plate in the treatment of Neer type II distal clavicle fractures. A prospective cohort study was conducted to analyse the clinical data of 36 patients with distal clavicle fractures from January 2016 to January 2019. The results were analysed. According to the random number method, the patients were divided into two groups: the titanium cable group (fixed with a titanium cable in combination with a locking plate) and hook plate group (fixed with a clavicular hook plate only). Under the guidance of a special device (for which a patent was obtained), in the titanium cable group, the coracoclavicular ligament was fixed with tension reduction, and then the distal clavicular fracture was fixed with a locking plate. In the hook plate group, the distal clavicle fracture was fixed with a hook plate. The incision length, operation time, bleeding volume and VAS score before, 1 week after and 1 year after the operation were compared between the two groups. The effect of the operation was evaluated by the Constant-Murley score before and 1 year after the operation. X-ray films were taken 2 days, 3 months, half a year and 1 year after the operation to observe the reduction and healing of fractures. At the same time, complications were recorded. The amount of bleeding was the same in the two groups. The operation time in the hook plate group was relatively short, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The VAS score in the titanium cable group was significantly lower than that in the hook plate group one year after the operation. The Constant-Murley score in the titanium cable group and hook plate group was significantly higher 1 year after the operation. The number of postoperative complications in the titanium cable group was significantly lower than that in the hook plate group. The treatment of Neer type II distal clavicle fractures with a titanium cable plus a locking plate has a good curative effect, few complications and good postoperative recovery and thus is worth popularizing.

Application of suspensory external fixation technique in treatment of proximal humeral fracture

To investigate the effectiveness of suspensory external fixation technique in treatment of proximal humeral fractures. Between August 2013 and October 2018, 14 patients with proximal humeral fractures were treated with suspensory external fixation technique. There were 10 males and 4 females with an average age of 55.9 years (range, 43-76 years). There were 10 cases of falling injury and 4 cases of traffic accident injury. Among them, there were 9 cases of Neer type Ⅲ and 5 cases of Neer type Ⅳ. The time from injury to operation was 3-7 days (mean, 4.6 days). Nine cases were complicated with osteoporosis. The preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score was 6.1±1.2. The effectiveness was comprehensively evaluated by hospital stay, fracture healing time, removal time of external fixator, postoperative complications, VAS score, and Neer score of shoulder joint function. All operations were successfully completed, and the hospital stay was 6-14 days, with an average of 9.4 days. All the incisions healed by first intention, and no infection or other complications occurred. All patients were followed up 16-60 months (mean, 35.4 months). X-ray films examination showed that all fractures healed, the healing time was 4-7 months (mean, 4.9 months). The removal time of external fixator was 5-8 months (mean, 6.3 months). VAS scores were 1.5±0.8 at 1 month after operation and 1.0±0.9 at last follow-up, both of which were significantly improved when compared with preoperative score, the differences were significant between different time points ( P<0.05). Neer score of shoulder joint function was 75-100 (mean, 91.1); 9 cases were excellent, 4 cases were good, and 1 case was fair. The excellent and good rate was 92.9%. During follow-up, there was no adverse events such as acromion impingement, nonunion, or pseudoarthrosis. For proximal humeral fractures, the suspensory external fixation technique is a simple and reliable treatment method that can significantly improve joint function.

Precontoured Locking Compression Plate with Titanium Alloy Cable System: In Treatment of Neer Type IIb Distal Clavicle Fracture.

ObjectiveTo describe a new method which involves anatomical distal clavicle plate fixation and titanium alloy cable system‐augmented coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction to manage Neer type IIb distal clavicle fracture.MethodsBetween January 2013 and June 2018, 28 patients with acute Neer type IIb lateral clavicle fracture were treated by a new method – precontoured locking compressive distal clavicular plate fixation of the fracture combined with titanium alloy cable system‐augmented reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligament. There were 11 females and 17 males treated in this way. There were 15 cases of the right side and 13 of the left. The mean age of the patients was 48.5 years (range, 18–78 years). The mean time from injury to surgery was 3.9 days (range, 1–7 days). After completing the preoperative examinations and evaluations, surgeries were performed for all these patients, anatomical distal clavicle plates were used for fractures, and titanium alloy cables were implanted for the augmented reconstruction of coracoclavicular ligaments. Postoperative protocols, including arm sling management and rehabilitative activities, were unified and recommended to all the patients. These patients were followed up for at least 1 year. The mean duration of postoperative follow‐up was 23.3 months (range, 12–52 months). At the last follow‐up, the coracoclavicular distances were recorded and shoulder functional outcomes were assessed by the Constant scores and the Fudan University Shoulder Scores (FUSSs) questionnaires.ResultsRadiographic bony unions were achieved in all patients within 20 weeks. Functional and radiographic outcomes were retrospectively evaluated. The mean coracoclavicular distance was 9.61 ± 0.61 mm on the injured side vs 9.62 ± 0.57 mm on the contralateral uninjured side. The mean Constant score and mean FUSS were 90.1 ± 6.6 (range, 68–98) and 86.1 ± 7.2 (range, 64–95) respectively, which indicating good restoration of function and high level of satisfaction for both the patients and their physical therapists. There were a few major complications, including one delayed healing of the skin, one severe shoulder stiffness, three incidences of moderate shoulder stiffness, and five incidences of symptomatic hardware. There is no deep infections, neurovascular injuried, delayed union or nonunion, peri‐implant fracture, loss of reduction, implant malposition or failure, or other severe complications.ConclusionThis combined method for the treatment of Neer type IIb distal clavicle fracture could yield high bony union rate, good functional outcome, and low complication rate. Further prospective randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm the benefits of this method of treatment.

Stand-alone coracoclavicular suture repair achieves very good results in unstable distal clavicle fractures at a minimum follow-up of 1 year.

The treatment of unstable (Neer type IIB and V) extra-articular distal clavicle fractures remains challenging, especially when encountering a small lateral fragment which does not allow for sufficient screw purchase. It was the purpose of this study to present the clinical and radiologic outcome of a consecutive series of patients treated by a stand-alone coracoclavicular stabilization using a so-called cow-hitch technique with a suture anchor. Nineteen patients were treated with a specific surgical technique for distal clavicle fractures (11 left, 8 right) with either rupture or bony avulsion of the coracoclavicular ligaments. Fourteen patients were examined in our outpatient clinic for the purpose of this study after a mean follow-up of 5 years (1-12.2 years). The examination included scoring according to Constant Murley score (CMS), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES), the Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and follow-up radiographs. Two additional patients were amenable to a telephone interview. All patients reported very good subjective results, with a mean SSV of 92% and a mean ASES score of 96%. The CMS resulted in average absolute values of 92 points. Fractures consolidated in 95% of cases. One patient developed an asymptomatic pseudarthrosis. The coracoclavicular distance was restored from 21 mm preoperatively to 11 mm at the final follow-up and finally showed an average side-to-side difference of +1.8 mm. Sports activities were fully resumed after an average of 4.7 months. The coracoclavicular stand-alone cow-hitch suture repair for unstable distal clavicle fractures is a minimally invasive fixation technique without prominent hardware that allows for an anatomic reduction and stable fixation with a low complication and high bony union rate. Both radiographic and clinical long-term results are very satisfactory.

Clinical Outcome of Neer Type II Lateral End Clavicle Fractures With Coracoclavicular Ligament Disruption Treated With Pre-Contoured Locking Plate and Endobutton.

IntroductionMany surgical techniques have been described for the treatment of Neer type II lateral end clavicle fractures like open reduction and internal fixation with hook plate, tension band wiring, coracoclavicular screw fixation, and distal clavicle locking plate. However, most of these operative procedures are associated with high perioperative complications ranging from hardware prominence, hardware failure, screw and plate pull-out, and infection. As the lateral end clavicle fractures has both vertical and horizontal stress forces, any technique counteracting both the forces should result in a better clinical outcome. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the functional and radiological outcome of type II lateral end clavicle fracture treated using pre-contoured locking plate along with coracoclavicular reconstruction with endobutton and fiberwire.MethodsThirty-two consecutive patients with Neer type II fractures of the lateral end of clavicle were treated surgically using pre-contoured locking plate and coracoclavicular reconstruction with endobutton and fiberwire between May 2014 and December 2016. Clinical outcome was assessed using the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score and Constant Murley score. The coracoclavicular distance was also recorded. These were compared to the unaffected side at one-year follow-up.ResultsThe bony union was achieved in all cases. There were no major complications in any of the patients. All the patients were able to return to their preinjury level of activity. The UCLA score, the Constant Murley score, and coracoclavicular distance did not vary significantly at a one-year interval when compared to the normal shoulder.ConclusionOpen reduction and internal fixation of Neer type II lateral end clavicle fractures using pre-contoured locking distal clavicle plate along with coracoclavicular reconstruction with endobutton and No. 2 fiberwire provide an excellent functional and radiological outcome.