Treatment of unstable distal third clavicular fracture with locked distal radius plate.

Abstract

The ideal surgical fixation for displaced distal clavicle fractures should not involve restrictions of the movements of nearby joints. To evaluate the results of internal fixation of unstable displaced distal third clavicle fractures using locked distal radius plates. Fifteen patients with Type II distal clavicle fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using locked distal radius plates. Thirteen patients achieved full range of motion of the shoulder while two patients had minor limitations. The mean modified shoulder score was 18.3 at the final follow-up. None of the patients developed implant failure, loss of reduction, wound breakdown, or deep infection. Good clinical results can be achieved with locked distal radius plate fixation in Type II fractures of the distal clavicle. With this technique, range of shoulder movement could be restored early without the needs for implant removal.