New interlocking intramedullary nail for treating acute midshaft clavicular fractures in adults: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to retrospectively examine the radiological and functional results of midshaft clavicle fractures that were treated with a new, interlocking intramedullary nail, and employing a different locking option. METHODS: Between January 2018 and January 2020, 24 displaced midshaft clavicle fractures were operated with new, interlocking intramedullary nail. Fractures were classified according to the AO/orthopedic trauma association classification, according to which there were 22 15.2.B (wedge) and 2 15.2.C (comminuted) fractures. The mean patient age was 35.5±14.2 (range: 18–63) years. Eighteen (75%) of the patients were male and six (25%) were female. RESULTS: Follow-up data were recorded at a minimum of 1 year (range 12–36 months), with an average of 21.5 months (SD±8). The mean interval between the injury and surgery was 4.1 (SD±2.3; range: 1–9) days. Full shoulder movements had been achieved by all patients, relative to the contralateral side. The mean constant score was 95.6 (SD±4.2; range 90–100), and the mean visual analog scale score was 0.8 (SD±0.8; range: 0–3). Union was achieved in all patients. The mean union time was 9.5 (SD±1.8; range 6–12) weeks as assessed by radiograph. Average shortening of the clavicle relative to the contralateral side was 3.4% (SD±1.1; range 1.1–6.3). One patient experienced implant irritation, implant removal was performed after 14 months. No implant migration, hardware loosening, implant breakage, or neurovascular damage occurred. One hypertrophic scarring developed. One wound detachment developed at the 3(rd) post-operative week. CONCLUSION: We think that this new intramedullary nail is a good alternative for wedge type fractures in adult, acute, displaced, and midshaft clavicle fractures.