Anterior-inferior plating of middle-third fractures of the clavicle.
BACKGROUND
Various techniques have been reported for the treatment of middle-third clavicle (collar bone) fractures. This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the results of anterior-inferior plating using a 3.5-mm reconstruction plate for the treatment of middle-third clavicle fractures.


METHODS
Twenty-six patients with middle-third clavicle fractures were treated with anterior-inferior plating. The indications for surgery included complete displacement, severe comminution, and marked shortening of the clavicle (>2 cm).


RESULTS
The mean time to union was 14 weeks (range 8-20 weeks). At the time of latest follow-up, all of the patients had returned to their pre-injury activity level. The plates were removed in ten patients after the fractures healed. No patients required plate removal due to implant-related problems.


CONCLUSIONS
Anterior-inferior plating is an effective treatment modality for middle-third clavicle fractures, with few complications and early return of shoulder function. The procedure provides stable fixation, avoids risk to vital structures below the clavicle, and is associated with a low rate of implant-prominence problems.
Chen
Chin-En
CE
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Golden Hospital, Pingtung, 900, Taiwan, ROC. chinenmd@ms21.hinet.net
Juhn
Rei-Jahn
RJ
Ko
Jih-Yang
JY
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001860:Bone Plates; D002968:Clavicle / Q000293:injuries*; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D055815:Young Adult