Displaced medial end clavicular fractures treated with an inverted distal clavicle plate contoured through 90 degrees

BACKGROUND

This study assessed whether treating medial end clavicular fractures using an inverted distal clavicle locking plate, twisted through 90° around its axis, would allow for a less invasive surgical approach and improve screw trajectory insertion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched the databases of the 2 senior authors for patients who had sustained an acute, displaced fracture of the medial end of the clavicle and had undergone operative fixation using an inverted distal clavicle plate contoured through 90°. Through an inferior incision, a contoured locking plate was positioned on the anterior surface of the medial end of the clavicle. Up to 8 unicortical screws were inserted from anterior to posterior through the medial end of the plate. The lateral end was contoured and fixed to the superior clavicular surface. The patients were assessed preoperatively and at 1 month, 4 months, and final follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative plain x-ray images and computed tomography scans were reviewed.

RESULTS

The study included 8 patients (average age, 31.3 years; range, 15-59 years) with displaced fractures who underwent fixation. The median follow-up time was 30.5 months (range, 24-45 months). All patients reached clinical and radiographic union at 4 months. The mean 11-item version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 0.6 (range, 0-2.3). All of the patients had returned to their preinjury level of sport and activity. None of the patients had a complication.

CONCLUSION

Contouring an inverted distal clavicle plate through 90° may improve fixation options by allowing access to the anterior clavicle when treating medial clavicular fractures.