Functional outcomes after arthroscopic double button fixation of distal clavicular fractures in athletes

Distal third clavicle fractures are a frequent pathology in young, active patients, accounting for 30% of all clavicle fractures. There are several treatments available, which range from orthopedic management to surgical treatment with various options including: locking plates, tension bands and button fixation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic results of a group of patients treated with the arthroscopic double button fixation technique and, secondly, to analyze the complications and the rate of return to sports.

Nineteen patients (15 male and 4 Female) with a mean age of 38.2 years (21-64) were included. In all cases, an arthroscopic surgery with double button fixation of the distal third of the clavicle was performed. Functional Outcomes were evaluated with the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scale (ASES) for functional outcomes. Range of Motion (ROM) was also assessed.

The mean follow up was 27.3 months (12 to 54 months). The mean VAS was 0.63 and the mean ASES score was 94.1. The ROM was fully recovered in 17 patients (89,4%). All patients returned to regular sports practice at 3.5 months. Finally, a total of 2 complications were registered (11,6%).

The arthroscopic double button fixation of distal clavicular fractures is a safety and reliable procedure, and it is associated with favorable functional and radiological outcomes in most patients.