Displaced Mid-Shaft Clavicle Fractures: A Subset For Surgical Treatment

Recent studies have shown a high prevalence of symptomatic malunion and nonunion after nonoperative treatment of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures. We sought to study the result of surgical treatment of displaced mid-shaft fracture of clavicle. Forty mid shaft clavicle fractures in adults, displaced with initial shortening of more than 15 mm, were treated with primary internal fixation with plates. The inclusion criteria were displacement, shortening of clavicle of more than 15 mm and/or impending skin penetration. The follow-up period varied from 6 months to 24 months. Fracture union occurred in all patients (average union time 8.5 weeks). Superficial infection developed in one patient and implant was a problem in one patient. The outcome was assessed by complications, constant score and patient satisfaction questionnaire. Constant scores were excellent in the study group and 96% of the patients were satisfied with the operation. Surgical treatment in displaced fractures of the clavicle in our study produces satisfactory results. KEY WORDS: Displaced, clavicle fracture, mid shaft and plating