Comparative Study of Postoperative Outcomes of Clavicle Midshaft Fracture Treated by Nailing vs. Plating

Background A midshaft clavicle fracture is a prevalent form of injury of the upper extremity that affects one's quality of life. Several treatment modalities facilitate fixation of the displaced midshaft clavicle to decrease nonunion and malunion of the clavicle fracture. Still, numerous factors influence choosing an optimal surgical intervention. Thus, this study investigates the functional outcome of two standard fixation techniques, titanium elastic nails (TENs) and locking plates, as a prospective comparative study for surgical management of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures. Methods We performed closed/open reduction and internal fixation in 62 patients (40 male and 22 female) with TENs and locking plates, respectively, which were followed up at regular intervals following the surgery (at two, six, 12, 24, and 48 weeks). The surgical outcome was assessed both from functional and radiological standpoints. The influence of surgical fixation on functional outcome was evaluated based on the Constant-Murley score and the fracture recuperation based on union times. Results When compared to plate fixation, TENs had lesser union times. Still, there was no statistical difference in union time between the two groups. The functional assessment graded by Constant-Murley score had a similar distribution of scores between the two groups.With a follow-up of twelve months, the Constant-Murley scores between the groups were not statistically different. While the average score for plate fixation was slightly higher than that of TENs, the nonunion rate was found to be similar in both groups. Conclusion Surgical interventions using both TENs and plate fixation are suitable for managing clavicle midshaft fractures as they have a similar functional outcome. However, considering early recovery with minimal surgical complications, TENs can be a preferred treatment choice for managing displaced midshaft clavicle fractures.