Plate fixation of clavicle fractures: a comparative study between Reconstruction Plate and Dynamic Compression Plate

This study aimed at comparing the results of clavicular fracture fixation with AO Reconstruction (Recon) plate and Dynamic Compression Plate (DCP). The case notes of 39 patients with 40 acute and chronic clavicular fractures were retrospectively reviewed. The indications for fixation for acute cases comprised open fractures, the presence of sufficient skin tenting to risk skin integrity, neurovascular compromise and severe lateral displacement or comminution. Cases of symptomatic atrophic non-union after at least 12 months conservative management or previous failed 1/3 tubular plate fixation were also included in the study. In total 24 fractures were fixed with Recon Plate and 16 with DCP. Mean time to union was 4.2 months for the Recon plate group and 5.4 months for the DCP group. Eight of the DCP group complained of plate prominence requiring plate removal. Recon plates should be used in preference to DCP whenever clavicular fracture fixation is indicated.