J Korean Fract Soc.  2010 Jan;23(1):64-68. 10.12671/jkfs.2010.23.1.64.

Modified Spring Plate for Treatment of Unstable Distal Clavicle Fractures

• Lee SM
• Park IJ
• Kim HM
• Park JC
• Cho SG
• Kim YC
• Rhee SK

• KMID: 1461574
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12671/jkfs.2010.23.1.64

Abstract

PURPOSE
Unstable distal clavicle fractures should be treated surgically but may be difficult in firm fixation because of small distal fragment. Although a variety of fixation methods have been currently used, none of the methods seem to be firm fixation and little pain. We present a new technique using a spring plate which was modified from one third tubular plate and report the early results.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Modified spring plate was made from one third tubular plate and the distal hole of the plate was cutting and sharpened by rasp. The sharp edge was bent just like an animal claw (C shape). Between May 2007 and June 2009, a total of six patients with distal clavicle fracture were treated using modified spring plate. A sling was applied in the immediate post operative period for six weeks and exercises were started immediately.
RESULTS
Union was achieved in all cases with excellent results without complication (mean Constant score, 96). All patients had returned to ordinary daily activities but mild limitation of abduction (150 degrees ) by seven weeks after surgery. After six months, the plate was removed.
CONCLUSION
The modified spring plate has provided stable fixation for unstable distal clavicle fixation without disturbance to the acromioclavicular joint, subacromial space, or rotator cuff.

Keyword

Distal clavicle fracture; Modified spring plate; Acromioclavicular joint; Subacromial space; Rotator cuff

MeSH Terms

Acromioclavicular Joint
Animals
Clavicle
Exercise
Hoof and Claw
Humans
Rotator Cuff

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Close up photograph of modified spring plate. A newly designed spring plate which is made from ordinary one third tubular plate; The distal hole of the plate was cutting and sharpened by rasp. The sharp edge was bent just like an animal claw (C shape).

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  Fig. 2 (A) Distal clavicle comminuted fracture in a 47-year-old man. (B) After modified spring plate fixation. Note the acromioclavicular joint subluxation caused by acromioclavicular ligament damage. (C) After removal of modified spring plate.

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  Fig. 3 (A) Distal clavicle fracture in a 46-year-old man. (B) After modified spring plate fixation.

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