Infection after surgical reconstruction of a clavicle fracture using a reconstruction plate: a report of seven cases.
Mid-shaft clavicle fractures have traditionally been treated conservatively, although this has been associated with non-union and unsatisfactory shoulder function. The preferred approach is plate fixation, with a reconstruction plate for open reduction and internal fixation. Infection is a potential complication after such surgery, with rates of 0.4-7.8% reported in the literature. In our cases, an infection rate of 4.9% (7 of 142 patients) was noted; five of the seven patients suffered from acute postoperative infection within 1 month of surgery. The average time to presentation with an infection was 28 (23-32) days, with signs and symptoms of wound dehiscence in one patient and sinus discharge in four patients. Two patients suffered from subacute infections, with durations of 72 and 103 days, presenting with local heat and radiographic findings of screw loosening. Six of the cases healed with primary bony union after intensive debridement and early removal of the implants.
Liu
Ping-Cheng
PC
Department of Orthopedics, Kaohsiung Municipal Hsiao-Kang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Hsieh
Chih-Hsin
CH
Chen
Jian-Chih
JC
Lu
Cheng-Chang
CC
Chuo
Chin-Yi
CY
Chien
Song-Hsiung
SH
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001860:Bone Plates; D002968:Clavicle / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D003646:Debridement; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures