Operative treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle.

Abstract

Eight children were treated operatively with resection of fibrous pseudarthrosis and sclerotic bone ends, careful dissection and preservation of the periosteal sleeve to maintain continuity, and approximation of bone ends. None had additional bone grafts or internal fixation. All had bridging ossification 6-8 weeks postoperatively, and all were solidly healed by 14 weeks after surgery. Follow-up has ranged from 2 to 14 years, with no evidence of recurrence. Remodeling of the prominence occurred slowly in 2-5 years, with the distal clavicle variably underdeveloped in all patients. Early resection of fibrous pseudarthrosis probably does not require the extensive grafting and internal fixation that has been recommended for older children.