Using a Nice knot to simplify and strengthen closed reduction in displaced distal clavicle fracture: a technical note.

A displaced distal clavicle fracture often necessitates surgical intervention, with various open and closed reduction options. Open reduction is easier but raises blood supply concerns, while closed reduction can involve complex deforming forces with differing displacement vectors. Herein, we demonstrate how a Nice knot with its sliding and self-locking qualities can be used to make closed reduction easier and the alignment more secure. A case report illustrates this Nice knot application in a 61-year-old male with a distal clavicle fracture. The Nice knot's ability to be loosened and retightened ensured more precise alignment in this case. The Nice knot technique is a versatile option for easier and more secure distal clavicle fracture management.

Ultrasound-Guided Clavipectoral Fascial Plane Block as a Stand-Alone Anesthetic Technique for Clavicle Fracture Management: A Case Report.

The clavipectoral fascial plane block (CFPB) that has been utilized for clavicle fracture surgeries and pain management is an emerging anesthetic technique. It has been previously used for postoperative pain management, but it can also be used as a stand-alone anesthetic technique for clavicle fracture management. Here we describe a case of a 20-year-old male who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plating for a mid-shaft clavicular fracture under a CFPB as a sole anesthetic.

Efficacy of intramedullary bridge fixation for midshaft clavicle fractures: a retrospective analysis of a novel technique.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to explore the efficacy of a novel intramedullary fixation technique using the ortho-bridge system (OBS) for midshaft clavicle fractures. METHODS: A total of 63 patients were included in this study: 35 underwent plate internal fixation (LP group) and 28 underwent OBS intramedullary fixation (OBS group). Surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, incision length, fracture healing time, removal of the internal fixation agent, visual analog scale (VAS) score for shoulder pain, Constant-Murley shoulder score and complication occurrence were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: Preoperative general data, such as sex, age and fracture type, were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, the OBS group exhibited better outcomes than the LP group exhibited in terms of surgical time, intraoperative blood loss and total incision length (P < 0.05). Additionally, the OBS group exhibited a significantly shorter fracture healing time and internal-fixation removal time than the LP group exhibited (P < 0.05). The VAS scores on postoperative day 1, week 1, month 1 and month 3 were lower in the OBS group than in the LP group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the Constant-Murley shoulder scores at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively were higher in the OBS group than in the LP group (P < 0.05), with no significant difference at 1 year after surgery (P > 0.05). None of the patients in the OBS group experienced scarring of the surgical incision, and 6 patients in the LP group experienced scarring of the surgical incision. Finally, the complication incidence in the OBS group was lower than that in the LP group. CONCLUSION: For midshaft clavicle fractures, OBS intramedullary fixation is better than locking-plate internal fixation because it led to less trauma, a faster recovery, better efficacy, and better esthetic outcomes and comfort. Therefore, this technique may have potential as a novel treatment for midshaft clavicle fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III, retrospective observational study.

Mini Fragment Locking Compression Plate Fixation of a Rare Case of Displaced Medial End Clavicle Fracture.

Clavicle fractures at the medial end are very rare. Even in cases where there is severe displacement, such fractures have usually been managed nonoperatively. Yet, there are many patients who remain symptomatic over a year following injury, and the non-union rate is also high. Operative intervention for displaced clavicle fractures of the medial end has been more common in the past decade. The possibility of iatrogenic injury due to the near proximity of critical vascular structures continues to be a concern. This case report describes the management of a rare displaced medial end clavicle fracture in a young male. The patient is a 28-year-old male who came with a week-old displaced medial end left clavicle fracture. On examination, tenting of skin was seen over the medial end clavicle region. CT angiography of the left upper limb was performed to check the vascular structures in relation to the fracture, as there remain concerns about the close proximity of underlying vascular structures and the potential for iatrogenic damage. A vascular surgeon was kept on standby during the surgery. The patient was taken up for surgery after a pre-anesthetic checkup and open reduction and internal fixation was done with a 2.4-mm system mini fragment locking compression plate over the anterior surface of the clavicle. The surgery was uneventful, and the patient had a good clinical and radiological outcome postoperatively.

Comprehensive comparison between conservative therapy and surgical management for completely displaced and comminuted mid-shaft clavicle fractures.

PURPOSE: It is still controversial whether complete displaced mid-shaft clavicle fractures should be treated with internal fixation or conservative therapy. This retrospective study aims to compare clinical outcomes of two treatment protocols. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 105 patients with displaced and comminuted mid-shaft clavicle fractures were included in this study, among which 55 patients were treated conservatively and 50 patients accepted surgical fixation and were followed up for over 20 months on average. Rate of union, malunion, time taken for union, functional outcome, self-reported satisfaction and complications were compared. RESULTS: Union rate of operative group (n=49, 98.0%) was higher than the non-operative group (n=48, 87.3%). Time taken for union in operative group (2.37±1.06 months) was shorter than the non-operative group (3.69±1.01 months). Malunion and asymmetric were only seen in the conservative group. Numbness of the shoulder was only reported in the operative group (n=23, 46.0%). Most of patients in the operative group (n=45, 90%) accepted a second operation to remove the implant. No statistically difference was found in self-reported satisfaction, Quick-DASH and Constant-Murley score. The operative group returned to work faster (1.47±0.89 to 3.34±1.37 months), regained full range of motion earlier (1.66±0.78 to 3.83±1.24 months) and regained strength faster (3.86±2.45 to 8.03±2.78 months) than the non-operative group. CONCLUSION: Complete displaced and comminuted mid-shaft clavicle fractures treated surgically have more reliable union and faster recovery when compared to conservatively treated fractures.

Clavicle fractures do not increase the occurrence of later subacromial pain syndrome. A registry-based case-control study with 15-25 years of follow-up of 131.838 persons from the Danish National Patient Register.

Background: A clavicle fracture often changes the mechanical axes of the shoulder girdle due to displacement and shortening, potentially leading to scapular protraction and decreased subacromial space. If protraction of the scapula is a major risk factor for developing subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS), a previous clavicle fracture could increase the risk of later SAPS. The purpose of this study was to investigate if a previous clavicle fracture correlates with a higher occurrence or earlier diagnosis of SAPS. Methods: In this retrospective case-control study with data from the Danish National Patient Register, all persons aged 18-60 years, with any hospital contact due to a clavicle fracture (DS420) between January 1, 1996, and December 31, 2005, were identified as cases. For each case, five controls, matched on age and sex, were identified. Primary outcome was the first hospital contact with a SAPS diagnosis (DM751-755) registered more than 180 days following the fracture. Follow-up was until November 01, 2021. Results: 21.973 cases and 109.865 controls were included. The incidence of clavicle fractures was 76 fractures per 100.000 persons per year. Twenty-three percent were female. 1.640 (7.46%) cases and 8.072 (7.35%) controls received a SAPS diagnosis within the following 15-25 years, demonstrating no significant difference in the occurrence of SAPS (P = .56). The mean time from fracture to SAPS diagnosis was shorter for cases compared to controls (4040 vs. 4442 days, P < .001), and cases were slightly younger when receiving the diagnosis (51.3 vs. 53.6 years, P < .001). 1614 cases underwent surgical fixation. This subgroup had a statistically significant higher occurrence of later SAPS diagnosis (205 cases, 13%, P < .001). Conclusions: Persons with a previous clavicle fracture did not have an increased occurrence of receiving a SAPS diagnosis compared to matched controls. However, the diagnosis was given 1-2 years earlier for people with a previous fracture. Based on these findings, no strong argument for protraction of the scapula as a major risk factor for the development of SAPS was found.

Biomechanical evaluation of fixation of the coracoclavicular stand-alone cow-hitch suture reconstruction in comparison to two established techniques for highly unstable distal clavicle fractures (Neer type V).

Background: Treatment of displaced distal clavicle fractures with bony avulsion of the coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments often warrants surgical fixation, yet a gold standard surgical technique is to be defined. The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical fixation strength of a new fixation technique, the CC stand-alone cow-hitch suture reconstruction, and to compare this technique with a clavicle hook plate and a lateral locking plate with CC suture reconstruction. Methods: Simulated Neer type V distal clavicle fractures of the clavicle were created in 18 cadaveric shoulders, which were matched by age and gender in 3 groups: (1) clavicle hook plate (group HP), (2) lateral locking plate fixation with CC suture reconstruction (group LPCC), and (3) CC stand-alone suture reconstruction using the cow-hitch technique (group CH). After preconditioning with 25 N for 10 cycles, the specimens were cycled in the coronal plane for 500 cycles from 10N to 70N. Displacement and ultimate load to failure were documented and analyzed with the data acquisition system. Results: There was a significant difference in the fracture displacement during cyclic loading between the LPCC group and the HP group (0.6 vs. 1.7 mm; P = .02) and between the CH and HP groups (0.5 vs. 1.7 mm; P = .004). Fracture displacement was not different between the LPCC and the CH groups (P = .544). The CH group and the LPCC group showed a significantly higher stiffness compared to the HP group (P < .001 and P = .003, respectively). The CH group showed a significantly higher ultimate load to failure compared with the HP group (429 vs. 172 N; P = .005) and showed a tendency toward higher ultimate load to failure when compared with the LPCC group (429 vs. 258 N; P = .071). Conclusion: The CC stand-alone cow-hitch suture reconstruction and the locking plate with CC reconstruction showed higher fixation strength compared with the hook plate for simulated Neer type V distal clavicle fractures. There was a tendency of higher ultimate load to failure with the cow-hitch technique compared with the lateral locking plate with CC suture reconstruction, and given the potential advantages of less soft tissue stripping, metal-free fixation, low costs, and simple surgical technique, clinical application of the all-suture CC reconstruction using the cow-hitch for Neer type V distal clavicle fractures appears warranted.

Functional outcomes and complications of plate fixation for midshaft clavicle fractures by type and location: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Various plate types are used in the surgical treatment of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures. These plates can be positioned in different locations on the clavicle, although no studies to date have elucidated optimal plate type and location of fixation. This systematic review compares the functional outcomes and complications in the management of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures using plate fixation by stratifying by both plate type and location. Methods: A systematic review according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines was conducted to identify all papers reporting functional outcomes, union rates, and/or complications using plates for the management of midshaft clavicle fractures. Multiple databases and trial registries were searched from inception until March 2022. A meta-analysis was conducted for functional outcomes and type of complication, stratified by plate type (locking, compression, or reconstruction) and location (superior or anteroinferior). Pooled estimates of functional outcome scores and incidence of complications were calculated using a random effects model. Risk of bias and quality were assessed using the risk of bias version 2 and ROBINS-I (Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies - of Interventions) tools. The confidence in estimates were rated and described according to the recommendations of the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) working group. Results: Forty-five studies were included in the systematic review and 43 were included in the meta-analysis. Depending on plate type and location, pooled Constant-Murley Scores ranged from 89.23 to 93.48 at 12 months. Nonunion rates were 3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1-6) for superior locking plates (GRADE Low). Rates of any complication (nonunion, hardware failure, hardware irritation, wound dehiscence, keloid, superficial infection, deep infection, delayed union, malunion, and/or persistent pain) by plate type and location ranged from 3% to 17% (GRADE Very Low to Moderate). Superior compression plates had the highest incidence of any complications (17% [95% CI 5-44], GRADE Very Low), while anterior inferior compression plates had the lowest incidence of any complication (3% [95% CI 0-15], GRADE Very Low). Hardware irritation was the most reported individual complication for superior locking plates and superior compression plates, 11% (95% CI 7-17, GRADE Low) and 11% (95% CI 3-33, GRADE Very Low), respectively. Conclusion: Although most studies were of low quality, studies reporting functional outcomes generally showed good functional results and similar incidence of any complication regardless of plate type and location. There is no evidence of a plate and location combination to optimize patient functional outcomes or complications. We were unable to reliably evaluate union rates or individual complications for most plate types stratified by location.

Minimal early functional gains after operative treatment of midshaft clavicular fractures: a meta-analysis of 10 randomized controlled trials including 1333 patients.

Background: There is substantial evidence that operative treatment reduces the risk of nonunion but offers no long-term functional gains compared with nonoperative treatment. Despite some studies citing quicker recovery with surgery, the promise of accelerated functional recovery remains under-investigated. The aim of this meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was to investigate the possible early functional gains (≤6 months) after operative treatment of displaced midshaft clavicular fractures compared with nonsurgical treatment. Methods: A systematic search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials comparing plate osteosynthesis with nonoperative treatment. We evaluated shoulder function outcomes measured by Constant Score or Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Other outcomes of interest were sick leave and return to previous activity (work, leisure). Results: Ten studies including 1333 patients were included. The mean difference in DASH score after 6 weeks was 9.4 points (95% confidence interval [CI] 13.7-5.1) in favor of operative treatment. At 3 months, the difference was 3.6 points (95% CI 6.9-0.4), and at 6 months, the difference was 3.2 points (95% CI 5.2-1.1), both in favor of operative treatment. Results for Constant Score were similar to that of DASH score. Conclusion: This meta-analysis shows that there is an early functional gain at six weeks following plate fixation of midshaft clavicular fractures compared with nonoperative treatment. At three and six months, the functional gain is lesser and not clinically relevant.

Do postoperative outcomes vary between midshaft clavicle fractures of 2, 3, or more than 3 fragments?

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess differences in clinical and surgical outcomes associated with the surgical treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures of different complexities based on fragment number. Additionally, the investigation seeks to present the outcomes of a series of patients who underwent surgery at our institution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of patients aged over 18 who underwent midshaft clavicle fracture surgery at our center from November 2009 to May 2021. Patients were categorized based on the number of fracture fragments into groups of two, three, or more than three fragments. Consolidation, implant removal, complications, surgical duration, and functional outcomes (assessed through VAS, ASES, and Constant-Murley scale) were evaluated for each specific group and for the overall cohort. RESULTS: In total, 260 patients were analyzed. There were no significant differences in any of the parameters between the three groups except for surgical time, which was shorter in simple fractures than in those with more than three fragments (68.2 min vs. 75.3 min; p = 0.01). Pseudoarthrosis rate was 2.69%, implant removal rate was 9.61%, and 4.23% of patients presented with complications other than the previous ones. Functional results were excellent, with averages of 97.3 (72.7-100) for the ASES score, 97.5 (75-100) for the Constant score, and 0.6 (0-8) on the VAS. CONCLUSION: According to our results, there were no differences in postoperative results between simple and multifragmentary midshaft clavicle fractures. Patients across all groups reported satisfactory results.

Clavipectoral fascia plane block in midshaft clavicle fractures: A cadaveric study.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this anatomical study was to investigate the distribution of a solution administered using the Clavipectoral Fascia Plane Block (CPB) technique in a series of cadaveric models with midshaft clavicular fractures. The study aimed to address the knowledge gap regarding the impact of clavicular fractures on the distribution pattern of the CPB-administered solution. DESIGN: Observational cadaveric study. SETTING: The research was conducted in the laboratory setting of the University of Barcelona, adhering to the institution's ethical guidelines and standards. PATIENTS: Five unembalmed human cadavers were used, generating ten clavicle samples. INTERVENTIONS: A postmortem fracture was induced in the middle third of the clavicle using a blunt-edged hammer, simulating a midshaft clavicular fracture. MEASUREMENTS: Anatomical dissection was performed in three layers: the superficial muscle plane, deep muscle plane, and clavicular periosteum plane. Dye staining with methylene blue was utilized to assess the distribution pattern. MAIN RESULTS: In the superficial muscular plane, methylene blue was observed in the deltoid (100%), pectoralis major (100%), sternocleidomastoid (SCM) (70%), and trapezius muscles (100%). Conversely, the deep muscular plane, including the subclavius muscle, pectoralis minor, and Clavipectoral Fascia (CPF), exhibited no staining. At the clavicular periosteum plane, methylene blue distributed predominantly to the antero-superior region (57.3%), with a minimal impact on the postero-inferior area (6.5%). CONCLUSIONS: The study reveals that the presence of a midshaft clavicular fracture does not significantly alter the diffusion pattern of the CPB-administered solution, maintaining a consistent distribution in both intact and fractured clavicle models.

Induced membrane technique using beta-tricalcium phosphate for reconstruction of clavicle bone defect after fracture related infection - A case report.

The induced membrane technique (IMT) is among the most innovative reconstructive methods for clavicle defects after fracture-related infection (FRI). Herein, we report a case in which a clavicle bone defect after FRI was reconstructed with an autogenous cancellous bone graft mixed with ß-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP) in the second stage of the IMT. A 62-year-old male patient with left clavicle fracture underwent open reduction and internal fixation. Refracture occurred immediately after the implant was removed. The patient was diagnosed with FRI after reopen reduction and internal fixation and was then referred to our hospital. The surgery was performed using the IMT. In the second stage of the IMT, the bone defect was filled with an autogenous cancellous bone mixed with wool-type ß-TCP. At 8 months after surgery, the nonunion area had fused, and the patient had no restrictions in activities of daily living. The IMT with ß-TCP can be a reconstructive method for bone defects after clavicular nonunion.

Intra-pulmonary migration of a clavicle osteosynthesis pin: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the clavicle are common injuries, which often require reduction and internal fixation. Although Kirschner pins have been commonly used to treat these fractures with good results, migration of these devices may result in severe internal lesions. CASE PRESENTATION: We report herein the case of 61-year-old man, who presented for intrapulmonary migration of a Kirschner pin, 25 years after closed reduction and fixation of a clavicle fracture. CONCLUSION: Migration of an osteosynthesis pin can be lethal. Patients with osteosynthesis pins, should have a regular follow, until the removal of the wires.

Arthroscopically Assisted Coracoclavicular (CC) Stabilization Using a Suture Button Device for Lateral Clavicle Fractures with CC Ligament Injury.

Background: Lateral clavicle fractures represent approximately 10-15% of all clavicle fractures. However, controversy exists regarding the optimal surgical treatment because of instability associated with the coracoclavicular (CC) ligament injury and a small lateral fragment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiological and clinical outcomes of arthroscopically assisted CC stabilization using a suture button device for lateral clavicle fractures accompanied by CC ligament injury. Methods: A retrospective observational study involved six patients with modified Neer type IIB fractures, which were treated with the technique and followed for 12 months. Postoperative range of motion (ROM) and X-rays were evaluated every 3 months. Shoulder functional scores (University of California Los Angeles score, Japanese Orthopedics Association score) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain (at rest, at night, and during motion) and for satisfaction were analyzed 12 months after surgery. Results: Early phase ROM recovery and excellent outcomes were achieved. All patients achieved bone union. Slight superior clavicle displacement and bone hole dilation occurred with no critical complications. Conclusions: Arthroscopically assisted CC stabilization with a suture button device for unstable lateral clavicle fractures can produce satisfactory radiological and clinical results.

Lateral clavicle fracture-plating options and considerations.

Clavicle fractures are among the most prevalent types of fractures with numerous treatment strategies that have evolved over time. In the realm of lateral-third clavicle fracture management, several surgical methods are available, with plate and screw constructs being one of the most frequently employed options. Within this construct, numerous choices exist for fixing the fracture. This editorial provides an overview of the common plate options utilized in the management of distal third clavicle fractures underscoring the critical considerations and approaches that guide clinicians in selecting the most appropriate fixation techniques, considering the complex landscape of clavicle fractures and their challenging management.

Clavicle Fracture Site Surgical Contouring: A Case Report.

Clavicle fractures are frequent injuries accounting for approximately 4% of all fractures in adults with about 35% occurring in the shoulder region among which midshaft fractures are the most common (>66%). Nonsurgical management is the treatment of choice for most clavicle fractures; however, poor functional and aesthetic outcomes may result from nonunion, symptomatic malunion, and aesthetic impairment which are the most common complications. A young woman was referred to our clinic for a "Step Deformity" resulting after primary, nonsurgical treatment of a midshaft clavicle fracture. Residual deformity was corrected with a novel simple and little invasive approach. Midshaft clavicle fractures typically only require conservative nonsurgical treatment, nevertheless suboptimal outcomes may occur. Selective osteotomies and fixation are deemed too invasive when only cosmetic impairment of the clavicle contour is present without any functional or sensitive damage and most patients are discouraged from undergoing surgery. Thus far, no specific focus on this topic, nor exploration of possible correction can be found in the published literature. These residual deformities may be very noticeable sometimes and cause psychological distress and social life impairment. Despite no related functional impairment, this deformity should still be addressed, to improve patients' quality of life.

Reliability of preoperative conventional X-ray diagnostics for multifragmentary midclavicular fractures - a retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of assessing preoperative conventional X-ray diagnostics in determining whether a comminuted clavicle fracture is present. METHODS: A total of 326 patients with complete clinical and radiological documentation treated for a central clavicle fracture at the author's department between January 1, 2012, and June 30, 2023, were included. Among these, 73 were female, and 253 were male in a mean age of 37.5 ± 17 years. RESULTS: On preoperative X-ray images or operation reports, 109 (33%) or 78 (24%) simple and 217 (67%) or 248 (76%) comminuted fractures were identified. Thity-one out of 248 comminuted fractures were only discovered intraoperatively, accounting for 13%. According to the AO classification on preoperative X-ray or operation reports, 109 or 78 fractures were classified as type A (33% or 24%), 51 or 45 as type B (16% or 14%), and 166 or 203 as type C (51% or 62%). For 40 patients, the discrepancy between the preoperative X-ray and the intraoperative fracture type led to a change in the surgical procedure. This represents 12% of the total cohort or 91% of the fractures that were classified differently preoperatively compared to intraoperatively. In these cases, fractures were treated with open reduction and angular stable plate osteosynthesis instead of the preoperatively planned elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN). CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that conventional X-ray diagnostics may not always detect comminuted clavicle shaft fractures. The treating physician should be aware of this issue.