Functional and Radiological Outcomes of Anterior Clavicle Plating in the Treatment of Midshaft Clavicle Fractures -...

Midshaft clavicle fractures are frequent injuries traditionally treated conservatively, but recent trends emphasize surgical intervention to achieve better functional outcomes. Anterior clavicle plating has become a viable alternative to the traditional superior plating technique for specific fracture types, offering potential benefits, such as reduced irritation from hardware and improved cosmetic appearance. However, further studies are needed to assess its biomechanical stability and overall functional effectiveness.

The objective of this study is to assess the functional outcomes of anterior clavicle plating in patients with midshaft clavicle fractures-Allman group - 1.

This was a prospective observational study conducted on patients who underwent anterior clavicle plating for midshaft clavicle fractures. Post-operative functional outcomes were measured using the Constant-Murley Score (CMS) at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery.

Forty-two patients participated in the study, with 69% being male. Notable improvements in functional scores were observed at each follow-up point, with the mean CMS rising from 76.12 ± 3.71 at 1 month to 98.26 ± 2.72 at 12 months (P < 0.05). Only 4.8% of patients reported post-operative complications.

Anterior clavicle plating is a safe and effective surgical option for midshaft clavicle fractures, yielding excellent functional outcomes with a low complication rate. This technique is particularly advantageous in tertiary care centres, where comprehensive expertise and resources ensure optimal patient care.