Nonoperative treatment of Neer type II distal clavicle fractures: a prospective study

The first prospective series of nonoperatively treated Neer type II fractures of the lateral third of the clavicle with concomitant rupture of the coracoclavicular ligaments is reported. Among ten patients with an average follow-up of 14.3 months, there were seven healed fractures and three nonunions. None of the three patients with a nonunion desired surgery. Six of the seven patients with healed fractures were satisfied. Eight of the ten patients returned to full activities, although all three patients with nonunions experienced at least occasional discomfort in the affected shoulder. Based on the results in this series of patients, the authors conclude that nonoperative treatment is an effective alternative to surgical management of Neer type II distal clavicle fractures.