Results of fixation of clavicle alone in managing floating shoulder.
OBJECTIVE
A retrospective review on the outcomes of four floating shoulder, ipsilateral scapular neck and clavicular fractures, treated with open reduction and internal fixation of the clavicle alone using plate and screws.


METHODS
All patients were evaluated by interview, physical examination and radiological examination at an average follow up period of 3.3 years (range: 2-4 years). Functional outcomes were rated using Rowe's score.


RESULTS
Radiological union of both fractures occurred at an average of 2.8 months (range: 8-12 weeks). Excellent result was seen in three cases and good in one.


CONCLUSIONS
Plating of clavicle alone restored stability of shoulder and allowed early range of motion exercises. All cases gained good and excellent function.
Low
C K
CK
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Moulmein Road, Singapore 308433.
Lam
A W
AW
D000328:Adult; D001860:Bone Plates; D001863:Bone Screws; D002968:Clavicle / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007593:Joint Instability; D008297:Male; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012782:Shoulder / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D000070599:Shoulder Injuries