Treatment Of Clavicle Fractures Research Articles

Contemporary methods of regional anesthesia in the surgical treatment of clavicle fractures: narrative review

The problem of choosing a method of regional anesthesia for the surgical treatment of clavicle fractures is of great relevance due to a continued growth in possible contraindications for the choice of conventional methods of blocking the upper limb region. Chronic pulmonary dysfunction in patients after COVID-19, an increasing number of patients suffering from severe respiratory failure caused by chronic obstructive lung disease, and the features of injuries to the upper limb area that can impair lung function on the affected side have led to the conclusion that the use of regional anesthetics may pose more risks to patients than benefits. The authors searched for publications in various electronic databases and libraries, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE and others. According to the results of the search, 904 literary sources were identified, and this review includes data from 26 studies containing information on 3391 patients who received one or another method of regional anesthesia and analgesia, and 29 other literary sources substantiating the relevance of the work. The review includes articles describing any methods of regional anesthesia used in surgical interventions on the collarbone in adults and children, as well as articles on complications and side effects of regional anesthesia methods used in clavicle surgery.The purpose of the review was to search for methods of regional anesthesia for patients in the surgical treatment of clavicle fractures, based on the analysis of modern literature. A review of the literature has allowed us to better understand the characteristics of traditional methods of regional anesthesia and to learn about new techniques that can improve patient comfort and safety during clavicular surgery.

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.

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

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

Smoking Is Markedly Associated With 30-Day Readmission and Revision Surgery After Surgical Treatment of Clavicle Fracture.

A recent database study found that 15.2% of clavicle fractures underwent surgical treatment. Recent evidence accentuates the role of smoking in predicting nonunion. The purpose of this study was to further elucidate the effect of smoking on the 30-day postoperative outcomes after surgical treatment of clavicle fractures. The authors queried the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database for all patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of clavicle fracture between 2015 and 2020. Multivariate logistic regression, adjusted for notable patient demographics and comorbidities, was used to identify associations between current smoking status and postoperative complications. In total, 6,132 patients were included in this study of whom 1,510 (24.6%) were current smokers and 4,622 (75.4%) were nonsmokers. Multivariate analysis found current smoking status to be significantly associated with higher rates of deep incisional surgical-site infection (OR, 7.87; 95% CI, 1.51 to 41.09; P = 0.014), revision surgery (OR, 2.74; 95% CI, 1.67 to 4.49; P < 0.001), and readmission (OR, 3.29; 95% CI, 1.84 to 5.89; P < 0.001). Current smoking status is markedly associated with higher rates of deep incisional surgical-site infection, revision surgery, and readmission within 30 days after open reduction and internal fixation of clavicle fracture.

Остеосинтез переломов ключицы и его осложнения. Обзор литературы. Часть 1

Clavicle fractures are one of the most common injuries of the skeleton bones in an adult active, able bodied population. Thus, they are a socially significant injury. The review of the literature is based on Russian language primary sources from 2013 to 2022, containing the results of relevant studies in the field of clavicle fractures. Some earlier studies were also used. Objective To analyze the existing methods of surgical treatment of clavicle fractures with an emphasis on the frequency of postoperative complications, the timing of treatment and rehabilitation. In clinical practice, there are many methods of treating clavicle fractures both conservative and various options for surgical methods. Each of the methods of treatment has both positive and negative qualities, none of them excludes the development of complications, in particular – the non-extension of the collarbone. Complications significantly increase the time of treatment of the patient, make it difficult to rehabilitation and return to active life.

Routine Chest X-Ray is Not Cost-Effective After Clavicle ORIF: A Cost Effectiveness Analysis with National Estimations

Introduction Clavicular fractures can be managed surgically or via a non-operative approach. In those electing for surgical fixation, post-operative CXR may be routine practice in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) for a rare complication of pneumothorax (PTX), thus driving up the cost for managing these fractures. The value and associated cost of this routine CXR in PACU following open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of clavicles has not been thoroughly assessed. In this study we investigate the cost effectiveness of obtaining CXR after operative treatment of clavicle fracture. Materials and Methods Study was designed as a healthcare two-way dichotomous model with decision trees built in where a CXR was either obtained or not. Literature review was performed to determine the cost estimates of CXR, the cost of ORIF, and associated hospital stay expenses. Annual volume of clavicle ORIF’s performed were derived from the PearlDiver database, queried for CPT-23515 (Clavicle ORIF). Estimation of CXR rates were performed from 3% to 98% of patients undergoing clavicle ORIF. Net monetary analysis with associated sensitivity analysis of 10,000 repetitions was performed. Results The strategy without CXR proved to be the most cost-effective strategy with a net monetary benefit (NMB) of $32,022.50. At $50,000 willingness to pay (WTP), the no CXR strategy was the preferred option. This strategy was found to be optimal 76% of the time followed by routine CXR 23% of the time and less than 1% being indifferent. The national annual costs of routine CXR after clavicle ORIFs was estimated to range from $7,100 to $349,860, which over 10 years represents anywhere from $81,540 to $2,663,640 in additional expenses. Conclusion The provided study demonstrates that routine CXR after clavicle ORIF is not cost effective. Due to the exceedingly low incidence of PTX as a post-operative complication in clavicle ORIF, we recommend that hospitals and surgeons refrain from ordering radiographs in post-operative patients, with the exception of those displaying concerning clinical signs for PTX or those with known pre-operative pulmonary injury. Adopting this strategy will limit unnecessary healthcare costs accrued by patients and may be the more clinically appropriate management.

Intramedullary stabilization of dislocated clavicle fractures with a compression rod

Despite the favorable prognosis of conservative treatment for clavicle fractures, unsatisfactory consequences reach 10–30 % cases. Surgical methods of treatment for dislocated clavicle fractures, such as osteosynthesis with a plate or an elastic titanium rod, are mostly used in practice. The disadvantage of the latter is the possible migration of the implant with perforation of the skin. The purpose was to study the effectiveness of an intramedullary rod, improved by us, for osteosynthesis of dislocated clavicle fractures type OTA 15A and OTA 15B according to the AO/ASIF classification. The essence of the improvement was the possibility of closed minimally invasive intramedullary osteosynthesis of the clavicle body, with a simplified technique of the surgical intervention itself, prevention of implant migration. The latter was achieved by the fact that one of the ends of the rod had a drill, which eliminated the need for predrilling the medullary cavity of the clavicle to insert the rod, and its opposite end had a thread onto which a nut is screwed to achieve compression between the clavicular fragments. Forty-two patients with closed dislocated clavicle fractures were under supervision in the clinic of traumatology and orthopedics of Kyiv City Clinical Hospital 6. They underwent intramedullary osteosynthesis for clavicle fractures with an improved compressing rod (closed in 28 cases, open in 14) under regional anesthesia. In dyna-mics of the postoperative period, a clinical and radiological examination was performed, the severity of the pain syndrome and the function of the upper limb were assessed according to the visual analog scale (VAS), Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH). As shown by the results of X-ray examinations, the average period of clavicle fracture union was 10.1 ± 1.4 weeks (range 8–12 weeks). During the observation of the patients, favorable dynamics on the VAS and DASH were noted; by the end of the study (12 months after the operation), the functional capabilities of the upper limb on the DASH corresponded to 1.54 ± 0.84 points, VAS score was 9.60 ± 2.11 points. The improved construction of the intramedullary rod for osteosynthesis of dislocated clavicle fractures of the OTA 15A and OTA 15B type can be recommended for use in practice, as it has demonstrated favorable clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes.

Harms Reporting in the RCTs Underpinning the AAOS Clinical Practice Guidelines for Clavicle Fractures

Background: The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) publishes clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for various pathologies. An extension to the Consolidated Standards for Reporting (CONSORT) checklist provides authors with a framework for reporting harms in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Objectives: The purpose of this study was to measure harms reporting among RCTs cited as supporting evidence for the AAOS CPG on the treatment of clavicle fractures. This study also sought to determine whether these reporting rates changed over time. Methods: Adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we used the AAOS CPG for clavicle fractures and conducted a linear regression analysis to model the relationship between the year of publication and the total CONSORT checklist percentage adherence over time. Results: There were 28 RCTs cited as supporting evidence for the clavicle fractures CPG included in the final sample. The average number of the 18 CONSORT Extension for Harms items appropriately reported across all included RCTs was 9.32 (51.8%). Nine checklist items had more than 50% compliance (50%), 3 items had between 20% and 50% compliance (16.7%), and 6 items had less than 20% compliance (33.3%). The linear regression model demonstrated no significant improvement in CONSORT Harms reporting over time. Conclusions: Adverse events are inadequately reported in RCTs cited as supporting evidence for the AAOS Treatment of Clavicle Fractures CPGs. We recommend the utilization of standardized adverse event reporting tools specific to orthopedic trauma literature to facilitate ease in adverse event reporting among RCTs.

Эффективность различных оперативных способов лечения переломов ключицы

Fractures of the clavicle in frequency occupy one of the first places in case of damage to the musculoskeletal system. In this connection, many methods have been developed for the treatment of clavicle fractures; however, an effective method of fixation, devoid of shortcomings, remains the subject of research. The aim: to evaluate the effectiveness of various surgical methods for the treatment of clavicle fractures on the example of the Multidisciplinary clinic named after Professor Kh.Zh. Makazhan (Karaganda, Kazakhstan). Methods. A retrospective study was conducted in 276 patients with clavicle fractures older than 10 years. Of the total number of patients, the largest number are men - 221 patients (80.07%), women - 55 patients (19.92%). The use of intramedullary osteosynthesis (using pins, rods) was about 9% or 25 of all operated patients. With the help of an overlay plate, fixation was performed in 86% of patients (238 people), while out of 238 patients operated on with an overlay plate, 152 patients were operated on due to repeated referral from other clinics, and the remaining 86 were operated on urgently. Treatment with the rod apparatus was carried out in 1 patient. Results. As a result of treatment, the majority of patients achieved satisfactory results. However, when using intramedullary osteosynthesis (with the help of a pin, a rod), in 6 patients out of 25 operated by this method, the fixator migrated, and therefore bone osteosynthesis was performed. In patients treated with overlay plates, migration of the structure or the development of diastasis was not observed. As a result of the treatment with the rod apparatus, no complications were observed either. Conclusion. Based on the obtained statistical data, we see that plate osteosynthesis provides more rigid fixation, and additional fastening of autografts is performed in the treatment of false joints, which is effective for further fusion of fragments. However, despite the effectiveness of plate osteosynthesis, its disadvantages require the development of a new fixator for intramedullary osteosynthesis.

Do We Ever Need to Fix Clavicle Fractures in Adolescents?

Clavicle fractures in adults are increasingly being treated by surgical fixation following reports of symptomatic non-union, malunion and poor functional outcome with conservative treatment. This has led to a similar trend in the management of clavicle fractures in adolescents. This study aims to evaluate the outcome and complications of non-operatively treated clavicle fractures in adolescents. This is a retrospective, single institution study on adolescents aged 13-17 years who sustained a closed, isolated clavicle fracture, between 19972015. Clinical records were reviewed for demographic information, injury mode, time to radiographic fracture union, time to re-attainment of full shoulder range of motion (ROM), and time to return to full activities and sports. Complications and fracture-related issues were recorded. Radiographs were analysed for fracture location, displacement and shortening. A total of 115 patients (98 males, 17 females; mean age:13.9 ± 0.89 years) were included for study. 101 (88%) sustained a middle-third fracture while the remainder sustained a lateral-third fracture. A total of 96 (95%) of the middle-third fractures were displaced, and 12 (86%) of the lateral-third fractures were displaced. All displaced fractures in this study had shortening. Sports-related injuries and falls accounted for 68 (59%) and 34 (30%) of the cases respectively. Overall, the mean time to radiographic fracture union was 7.8 ± 4.35 weeks; there were no cases of non-union. Full shoulder ROM was re-attained in 6.6 ± 3.61 weeks, and full activities and sports was resumed in 11.4 ± 4.69 weeks. There were 5 cases of re-fracture and a single case of intermittent fracture site pain. Clavicle fractures in adolescents can and should be treated non-operatively in the first instance with the expectation of good outcomes in terms of time for fracture union, reattainment of shoulder full range of motion, and return to activities. Surgical stabilisation should be reserved for cases for which there is an absolute indication.

Functional Outcomes in Surgically Treated Clavicle Fractures: A Longitudinal Observational Study.

Introduction The clavicle is the most unique long bone and has a significant incidence in terms of fractures. Operative fixation for clavicle fractures has seen a steep rise in terms of technique as well as type of implant. Although extensive studies have been carried out in relation to clavicle fractures and their treatment modalities, no proper guidelines or approach has been identified as ideal, and hence, this study was carried out to evaluate operative fixation as a viable strategy. Objective The objective of this article was to assess functional outcomes of plate fixation in clavicle fractures. Materials and methods This longitudinal prospective observational study included 30 patients treated for clavicle fractures with plate fixation in the Orthopedics Department of Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (HIHT), Jollygrant, Dehradun, over a period of one year. Functional outcomes were assessed as Constant-Murley shoulder scores, and complications were recorded. Radiological assessment was done on thebasis of time to union through follow-up skiagrams. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS statistical package version 17.0 (IBM Inc., Armonk, New York).Continuous variables are presented as mean±SD, and categorical variables are presented as absolute numbers and percentages.Continuous variablesand constant score values over time within the groups were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Bonferroni's post hoc testing. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The mean age of patients undergoing surgical fixation of clavicle fractures was 36 ± 12.53 years, ranging from 18-65 years. Of the entire study group, 83.3% were males and 16.7% were females. Road traffic accident (RTA) was the most common cause of clavicle fracture, constituting 76.7% of the entire study population, followed by fall on the floor (20.0%), and one patient sustained trauma by being hit by a bull (3.3%). Our study demonstrated a mean Constant score of 73.87 ± 2.64, 82.80 ± 2.20, and92.40 ± 2.37 at one-month, two-month, and four-monthfollow-up times, respectively, which was found to be statistically significant in terms of progression (p value<0.001). The mean union time of clavicle fractures in our study population was 12.1 weeks. Two patients in our study developed implant impingement. Conclusion Our study revealed that patients with clavicle fractures treated with plate fixation had statistically significant good functional outcome (Constant) scores at sequential follow-ups, consistent with available literature. Mean union time was also comparable to existing literature. Non-union was not noted in our study, and only two cases developed implant impingement. Hence, we conclude that early primary plate fixation for displaced clavicle fractures is a promising technique with good overall functional outcomes and patient satisfaction, especially in young, active patients.

Functional and radiological outcome of non-operative treated clavicle fractures and its association with acromioclavicular joint arthrosis.

Clavicle fractures are traditionally treated non-operatively. This study determines the functional outcome of midshaft clavicle fractures treated non-operatively, the factors influencing it, and the incidence of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) arthrosis. Patients with midshaft clavicular fractures treated non-operatively between 16 and 50years old with no prior AC joint problems were assessed. Demographics, hand dominance, type of occupation, and smoking status were documented. Functional scoring using DASH score, CM score, and radiological evaluation was done with special tests to diagnose AC joint arthrosis. Two or more positive special tests were considered significant for this study. 101 patients were recruited, 83 male and 18 female patients. The average age of 34.7 ± 13.93years. The average follow-up was 32.7months (range: 24-75; SD ± 9.9months). 48.5% were blue-collar workers, and 60.4% involved the dominant upper limb. 44.6% were cigarette smokers. There was 20mm and more shortening in 21.8% of subjects. 40.6% had a significant special test, and 36.6% had radiological changes of AC joint osteoarthritis. Positive two or more special tests were significantly associated with radiological evidence of arthrosis (p = .00). The mean DASH score was 28.28 ± 17.4, and the mean CM score was 27.58 ± 14.34. Most have satisfactory to excellent scores. Hand dominance, smoking, and blue-collar work were significantly associated with poorer CM scores, and hand dominance was significant for Dash scores. There is an equal distribution poor, satisfactory and excellent functional outcomes in patients with midshaft clavicle fractures treated non-operatively. The poor outcomes may be attributed to ACJ arthrosis. Hand dominance, smoking and blue-collar work affected the functional outcome. Shortening of the clavicle had no bearing on the clinical and radiological findings of osteoarthritis and functional scores. The presence of two or more positive special tests is an accurate predictor of AC joint arthritis.

Effect of intramedullary fixation and plate fixation on postoperative wound complications in clavicle fractures: A meta-analysis.

More and more meta-analyses have been conducted to compare the effects of intramedullary fixation (IF) and plate fixation (PF) on the outcome of midshaft clavicle fractures. It can affect the doctors' treatment decisions. A number of studies have been conducted in order to assist surgeons in selecting optimal operative procedures and to recommend operative treatment of clavicle fractures in accordance with the best available research. Our analysis of the IF and PF of clavicle fractures was done through a search for PubMed, Emabase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Two different researchers analysed the research literature for quality of analysis and data extraction. The analysis of the data was done with RevMan 5.3. The 95% CI and OR models have been computed by means of either fixed-dose or randomize. In addition, RCT in 114 references have been reviewed and added for further analysis. It is concluded that the application of plate and intramedullary fixation in the middle clavicle operation has remarkable influence on the outcome of post-operation. There was a lower risk of postoperative wound infection in IF (OR, 5.92; 95% CI, 2.46, 14.27 p < 0.0001), smaller surgical incisions (MD, 6.57; 95% CI, 4.90, 8.25 p < 0.0001), and shorter operative time (MD, 17.09; 95% CI 10.42, 23.77 p < 0.0001), less blood loss (MD, 63.62; 95% CI, 55.84, 71.39 p < 0.0001) and shorter hospital stay (MD, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.84, 1.25 p < 0.0001). However, there is no statistical significance in the incidence of wound dehiscence. Thus, the effect of IF on the incidence of injury is better than that of the inner plate in the middle of the clavicle.

Early Internal Fixation of Concomitant Clavicle Fractures in Severe Thoracic Trauma Prevents Posttraumatic Pneumonia.

Severe thoracic trauma can lead to pulmonary restriction, loss of lung volume, and difficulty with ventilation. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence of better clinical outcomes following surgical stabilization of clavicle fractures in the setting of this combination of injuries. The aim of this study was to evaluate surgical versus non-surgical treatment of clavicle fractures in severe thoracic trauma in terms of clinical and radiological outcomes in order to make a generalized treatment recommendation based on the results of a large patient cohort. This retrospective study included 181 patients (42 women, 139 men) from a European level I trauma centre with a median of 49.3 years in between 2005 and 2021. In 116 cases, the clavicle fracture was stabilized with locking plate or hook plate fixation (group 1), and in 65 cases, it was treated non-surgically (group 2). Long-term functional outcomes at least one year postoperatively using the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Nottingham Clavicle Score (NCS) as well as radiological outcomes were collected in addition to parameters such as hospital days, intensive care days, and complication rates. The Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 17.8 ± 9.8 in group 1 and 19.9 ± 14.4 in group 2 (mean ± SEM; p = 0.93), the time in hospital was 21.5 ± 27.2 days in group 1 versus 16 ± 29.3 days in group 2 (p = 0.04). Forty-seven patients in group 1 and eleven patients in the group 2 were treated in the ICU. Regarding the duration of ventilation (group 1: 9.1 ± 8.9 days, group 2: 8.1 ± 7.7 days; p = 0.64), the functional outcome (DASH group 1: 11 ± 18 points, group 2: 13.7 ± 18. 4 points, p = 0.51; NCS group 1: 17.9 ± 8.1 points, group 2: 19.4 ± 10.3 points, p = 0.79) and the radiological results, no significant differences were found between the treatment groups. With an overall similar complication rate, pneumonia was found in 2% of patients in group 1 and in 14% of patients in group 2 (p = 0.001). This study could demonstrate that surgical locking plate fixation of clavicle fractures in combination with CWI significantly reducing the development of posttraumatic pneumonia in a large patient collection and, therefore, can be recommended as standard therapeutic approach for severe thoracic trauma.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Clinical Practice Guideline Summary on the Treatment of Clavicle Fractures.

Treatment of Clavicle Fractures Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline is based on a systematic review of published studies examining the diagnosis and treatment of clavicle fractures. This guideline contains four recommendations and 10 options to assist orthopaedic surgeons and any other qualified healthcare professionals with determining the treatment of isolated clavicle fractures based on the best current available evidence. It is also intended to serve as an information resource for healthcare professionals and developers of practice guidelines and recommendations. In addition to providing pragmatic practice recommendations, this guideline also highlights gaps in the literature and informs areas for future research and quality measure development. This guideline has been endorsed by the Orthopaedic Trauma Association, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and the American Society of Shoulder and Elbow Therapists.

Treatment and outcome of fracture-related infection of the clavicle

IntroductionThe number of operatively treated clavicle fractures has increased over the past decades. Consequently, this has led to an increase in secondary procedures required to treat complications such as fracture-related infection (FRI). The primary objective of this study was to assess the clinical and functional outcome of patients treated for FRI of the clavicle. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the healthcare costs and propose a standardized protocol for the surgical management of this complication. MethodsAll patients with a clavicle fracture who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) between 1 January 2015 and 1 March 2022 were retrospectively evaluated.This study included patients with an FRI who were diagnosed and treated according to the recommendations of a multidisciplinary team at the University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium. ResultsWe evaluated 626 patients with 630 clavicle fractures who underwent ORIF. In total, 28 patients were diagnosed with an FRI. Of these, eight (29%) underwent definitive implant removal, five (18%) underwent debridement, antimicrobial treatment and implant retention, and fourteen patients (50%) had their implant exchanged in either a single-stage procedure, a two-stage procedure or after multiple revisions. One patient (3.6%) underwent resection of the clavicle. Twelve patients (43%) underwent autologous bone grafting (tricortical iliac crest bone graft (n = 6), free vascularized fibular graft (n = 5), cancellous bone graft (n = 1)) to reconstruct the bone defect. The median follow-up was 32.3 (P25-P75: 23.9–51.1) months. Two patients (7.1%) experienced a recurrence of infection. The functional outcome was satisfactory, with 26 out of 28 patients (93%) having full range of motion. The median healthcare cost was € 11.506 (P25-P75: € 7.953–23.798) per patient. ConclusionFRI is a serious complication that can occur after the surgical treatment of clavicle fractures. In our opinion, when treated adequately using a multidisciplinary patient-specific approach, the outcome of patients with an FRI of the clavicle is good. The median healthcare costs of these patients are up to 3.5 times higher compared to non-infected operatively treated clavicle fractures. Although not studied individually, we consider factors such as the size of the bone defect, condition of the soft tissue, and patient demand important when it comes to guiding our surgical decision making in cases of osseous defects.

Device for transosseous osteosynthesis at thefractures of the clave

The article presents a technical solution to the issues of external osteosynthesis in the treatment of clavicle fractures, which is mainly characterized by insufficient capabilities inherent in the structures to move fragments in different directions and planes. Purpose: to establish the distinctive features of the known external devices used in the osteosynthesis of clavicle fractures, and to develop a design taking into account the identified shortcomings. Material and methods: based on the identified shortcomings in various author's designs, an original device was developed for the treatment of patients with fractures of the considered localization. The use of the device involves the use of stabilizing and repositioning screw rods, which are inserted through the proximal and distal fragments of the clavicle. A feature of the introduction of these screw rods is that they are located relative to each other at an angle of 90°, which ensures stable fixation of fragments of the clavicle in all planes. The method of rod fixation developed in the clinic allows for controlled reposition using repositioning nodes, the mobility of which is possible in three planes. Stable fixation of fragments of the clavicle is maintained until the fracture heals, while ensuring the function of the shoulder and elbow joints. Conclusions: evaluation of the technical results of the device showed that external osteosynthesis can be the method of choice for treatment and have practical application in trauma departments.

Evidence on treatment of clavicle fractures

Depending on the severity of the injury and the involvement of the soft tissue envelope, clavicle fractures can be treated operatively or non-operatively. In the past, displaced fractures of the clavicle shaft in adults have been treated non-operatively. However, the rate of nonunion following non-operative treatment seems to be higher than previously reported. In addition, publications reporting better functional outcomes following operative treatment are increasing. In recent years this has led to a paradigm shift towards an increase of operative fracture treatment.The aim of this review article was to summarize the currently available evidence on the treatment of clavicle fractures. Classifications, indications, and treatment options for different fracture patterns of the medial, midshaft, and lateral clavicles are presented and discussed.

SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CLAVICLE FRACTURES: A DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS OF 88 CASES.

To better understand the epidemiological and behavioral profile of these lesions when they require surgical treatment. This is an analysis of a series of cases. Our sample included individuals undergoing surgical treatment for clavicle fractures. In total, 88 subjects fulfilled the predetermined criteria. Among these, 75 (85.22%) were male; automobile accidents corresponded to the largest etiological group, reaching 48% of prevalence; there was a slight predominance of the right side, totaling 45 cases (51%); most fractures were classified as Allman type I; an infection rate was observed in 1.13% of the cases; and the development of pseudarthrosis was identified in 2.27% of the patients. The incidence of clavicle fracture is higher in young men, mainly caused by car accidents, being mostly located in the middle third. No statistical significance was found between the synthesis material data and the postoperative complication rate, revealing the absence of risk superiority between the different types of surgical approaches used. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment for Closed Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fractures.

Nonoperative treatment for clavicle fractures has historically been standard of care, but with a concomitant rise in recent operative fixation for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures (MCF), a re-evaluation of treatment modalities is necessary. The purpose of this study was to compare nonunion rates among operative and nonoperative treatment of closed displaced MCF. Specifically, we assessed the following between operative and nonoperative management: (1) 90-day to 1-year nonunion and malunion incidence; (2) 90-day medical complications; and (3) 90-day to 1-year total costs of care. An all-payer national database was retrospectively reviewed for closed displaced MCF from 2010 to 2020 (n = 173 188). Of these, patients undergoing operative fixation within 30 days of a displaced MCF were identified (n = 17 452). Nonoperative displaced MCF patients were matched with operative patients at a 3:1 ratio. Outcomes at 90 days and 1 year included: nonunion, total cost, and complications. Closed displaced MCF with operative fixation resulted in significantly increased nonunion rates at 1 year compared with nonoperative treatment (3.97% vs 1.63%, odds ratio = 2.50 [2.26-2.77], P < .001). Kaplan-Meier survivorship and log-rank score demonstrated the same for a 1-year nonunion endpoint (P < .001). As expected, the operative cohort incurred higher median total costs of care at 90 days ($3255.00 vs $1024.00, P < .001) and 1 year ($1978.00 vs $4799.50, P < .001) compared with nonoperative treatment. Our study found higher nonunion incidence after operative fixation of displaced MCF. These results may serve as a catalyst for future high-quality prospective studies comparing treatment options for closed displaced MCF.