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Surgery for ununited clavicular fracture
Acta Orthopaedica Scandinavica
|August 1, 1986
Summary
Operative treatment for ununited clavicular fractures, using rigid plate fixation and bone grafting, achieved good outcomes in most patients. However, potential risks include diminished shoulder function if the clavicle is shortened.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Traumatology
- Bone Healing
Background:
- Nonunion of clavicular fractures often results from conservative management.
- Significant displacement is a common characteristic of these nonunions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of operative treatment for ununited clavicular fractures.
- To assess outcomes of rigid plate fixation and cancellous bone grafting in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Operative intervention was performed on 24 patients with ununited clavicular fractures.
- Follow-up averaged 3.5 years, with a focus on union rates and subjective outcomes.
- Rigid plate fixation combined with cancellous bone grafting was the primary surgical technique.
Main Results:
- Good subjective outcomes were reported in 17 cases, satisfactory in six, and poor in one.
- Union was achieved in 20 out of 22 surgically treated cases.
- Two cases required clavicular resection.
Conclusions:
- Rigid plate fixation and cancellous bone grafting offer a viable solution for ununited clavicular fractures.
- While effective, surgical intervention carries risks, including potential shoulder dysfunction due to clavicular shortening.