Functional Outcomes in Surgically Treated Clavicle Fractures: A Longitudinal Observational Study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Clavicle fractures are common, with operative fixation techniques rapidly evolving.
• Optimal treatment strategies for clavicle fractures remain under investigation, necessitating further evaluation of surgical approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the functional outcomes of plate fixation in treating clavicle fractures.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of operative fixation for clavicle fractures.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal prospective observational study involving 30 patients with clavicle fractures treated with plate fixation.
• Functional outcomes were measured using Constant-Murley shoulder scores, with radiological assessment for fracture union.
• Statistical analysis included repeated measures ANOVA to assess changes in scores over time.

Main Results:

• Patients showed statistically significant improvement in mean Constant scores at sequential follow-ups (1, 2, and 4 months).
• The average time to fracture union was 12.1 weeks.
• Two patients experienced implant impingement; no non-unions were reported.

Conclusions:

• Plate fixation for displaced clavicle fractures yields good functional outcomes and high patient satisfaction.
• The technique is comparable to existing literature regarding union time and complication rates.
• Early primary plate fixation is a viable and promising strategy, particularly for young, active individuals.