An alternative fixation method for the treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures: locked distal radius plate
Abstract
Methods: Displaced distal clavicle fractures of 14 consecutive patients (11 men, 3 women; mean age 30±9 years; range 19 to 51 years) were treated using open reduction and locked distal radius plates. Before final fixation, one patient underwent Kwire fixation with tension band at another center, resulting in nonunion. Except for two cases with late presentation, the mean time to surgery was 5.3 days (range 1 to 17 days). According to the Neer classification, fresh fractures were type II in 10 patients and type III in three patients. Shoulder examinations and functional evaluations were made at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Functional assessment included the Modified Shoulder Rating Scale and Constant score.
Results: All patients achieved full range of motion of the shoulder at six weeks postoperatively. The mean modified shoulder score was 18.7±1.5 and the mean Constant score was 95.4±3.0 at 12 months. None of the patients developed implant failure, loss of reduction, skin breakdown, or infection.
Conclusion: In selected acute fractures and nonunions of the distal clavicle, excellent clinical results are easily achievable with locked distal radius plate fixation because it allows early shoulder movements without necessitating implant removal.
Keywords
Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Health Care Administration
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Bulent Daglar
This is me
Onder Delialioglu
This is me
Emre Minareci
This is me
Bulent Tasbas
This is me
Kenan Bayrakci
This is me
Ugur Gunel
This is me
Publication Date
September 22, 2009
Submission Date
March 7, 2014
Acceptance Date
-
Published in Issue
Year 2009 Volume: 43 Number: 4