[Lateral clavicular fractures in children and adolescents]

From 1996 to 1999, 572 fractures of the clavicle were treated in our department, 26 of which were located at the lateral end of the clavicle. Two children were operated: in one a closed reduction of the fracture under general anesthesia was performed, and in the other the fracture required open reduction with internal fixation. All other fractures were treated conservatively with a figure-of-eight clavicle strap for 3 weeks. A follow-up study was performed in autumn 2000. Sixteen patients came to our outpatient department for clinical and radiological control, and three patients informed us by phone. All patients including the two treated under general anesthesia were fully recovered and had no problems doing their job and engaging in different sports. The radiological controls showed a good ossification without visible deformity of the clavicle.