Internal Fixation of Clavicle Lateral and Fracture with Mini T-plate

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a mini T-plate fixation in clavicle lateral end fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed eleven cases of calvicle lateral end fracture which were treated with open reduction and internal fixion with mini T-plate from May 2000 to December 2004. The follow up period was 12 months minimum. The radiologic result, pain and shoulder function were evaluated by the ASES shoulder score. RESULTS: All cases showed satisfactory results. Seven cases (63%) were excellent, and four (37%) cases were good. There were no fair or poor results. All cases showed radiologic union by the fifteenth week. No complications such as metal breakage, limited motion, infections were seen. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that using a mini T-plate fixation which is easy and induces no injury of acromiocalvicular joint, contributes to provide stable fixation in clavicle lateral end fractures.

Effect of Alternative Splinting at Extension and 90degrees Flexion on Range of Motion after Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Distal Femur Fracture

PURPOSE: To evaluate the usefulness of early range of motion exercise by using 90degrees knee flexion splint after open reduction and internal fixation in fracture of distal femur. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed twenty-six cases of distal femur fractures which were treated with open reduction and internal fixation from February 2002 to November 2003. One group (group A) were treated by using 30degrees knee flexion splint, the other group (group B) were treated by using 90degrees flexion and full extension splint alternativley by post-operative 1 week. The follow up period was minimally 12 months. The range of motion and Schatzker and Lambert criteria were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean period to gain 90degrees knee flexion was 11.4 (7~14) weeks in group A, and 6.6 (3~8) weeks in group B. Mean range of motion was 94.7degrees (average flexion contracture 9.5degrees ) in A group and 108.7degrees (average flexion contracture 6.3degrees ) in B group at 12 weeks follow-up. According to Schatzker and Lambert criteria, excellent result was achieved in 10 cases (38%), good result in 13 cases (50%), fair result in 3 cases (12%). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that alternative splinting at extension and 90degrees flexion contribute to early recovery of range of motion in distal femur fractures treated with internal fixation.