Management of clavicle fractures in adults

Clavicule fractures have an incidence of approx 3 % of all fractures. Bone Fractures most commonly in the middle third of the bone .the treatment methods are:-Non Operative: slings, straps and braces are there for clavicle immobilization and treatment of fractures. Operative: External fixators, Intramedullary nails, Plates and screws. The aim of the study was to analyze the results of fixation of clavicle fractures with plate and screws and assessing the union radiologically, complications associated and restoration of range of motion of the shoulder and to evaluate the results clinically regarding pain, activities of daily living, range of motion, power, radiologically regarding union, non-union, refracture, screw and plate loosening, implant breakage. A total of 30 cases of midshaft clavicular fractures which were Allman (type I) closed & fresh were included. They were treated by open reduction & internal fixation with S-shaped clavicular LCP in 15 patients and 3.5mm reconstruction locking plate in 15 patients. The age of patients in this study ranged from 18-55 years. Males formed 72% of the patients. Most common cause of the fracture in this was road traffic accidents (55%). Right side was involved commonly (57%). Duration from injury to surgery was an average of 3.78days and hospital stay was an average of 4.32 days. The time taken for complete radiological union ranged from 7 to 10 weeks. The time taken to return to previous level of activity ranged from 8 to 18 weeks. Overall excellent results were achieved in 21 patients & good in 9 patients.