Adolescent Clavicle Fractures: Is There a Role for Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

Over the past ten years, there has been a change in the management of adolescent clavicle fractures. Utilizing data from the adult population, clinicians have become more aggressive in terms of surgical fixation. The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze the recent literature in regard to adolescent clavicle fractures, and to determine the role of open reduction and internal fixation.

Although there have been many case series that demonstrate that open reduction and internal fixation can be done safely and with predictable healing, studies which compare operative versus non-operative intervention suggest there may not be functional outcome differences between the two treatment options. Further study is necessary to determine the specific indications for fixation of clavicle fractures in the adolescent population. Shared decision-making between patient, family, and clinicians is essential to determine the specific fracture patterns and patients who might benefit from fixation to improve functional outcome.