Midshaft clavicle fractures: Current concepts

Clavicle fractures are common fractures and the optimal treatment strategy remains debatable. The present paper reviews the available literature and current concepts in the management of displaced and/or shortened midshaft clavicle fractures. Operative treatment leads to improved short-term functional outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, an earlier return to sports and lower rates of non-union compared with conservative treatment. In terms of cost-effectiveness, operative treatment also seems to be advantageous. However, operative treatment is associated with an increased risk of complications and re-operations, while long-term shoulder functional outcomes are similar. The optimal treatment strategy should be one tailor-made to the patient and his/her specific needs and expectations by utilizing a shared decision-making model. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2018;3:374-380. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.3.170033