Clin Should Elbow.  2011 Dec;14(2):199-206.

Postoperative Complications in Midshaft Fracture of Clavicles

• Yoo JH
• Chung ST
• Park JH

Abstract

PURPOSE
Because of increasing high energy traumas such as traffic accidents and industrial injuries, operative treatments in midshaft fractures of clavicles are increased. With analyzing factors that make an effect on postoperative complications, compatibilities of current treatment techniques and fixation devices should be discussed.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Sixty two patients with fractures on the midshaft of clavicles underwent operative treatment between 2004 and 2009. Many factors such as age, gender, type of fractures, underlying disease, operation time, fixation technique were analyzed for the evaluation of effects on developing postoperative complications. Plain radiography and/or computerized tomography were used. With a minimum 1 year follow-up, postoperative function were assessed by means of a ASES scoring system.
RESULTS
7 postoperative complications were developed. All of these belonged to male and severe fracture pattern. 3 infections, 3 metal failures, and 1 refracture were developed. All of 3 patients with infection were concerned with underlying diseases. Metal failures were developed in 2 of 15 patients with anatomical reconstruction plates fixation and 1 patients with cannulated screw fixation. Refracture were developed in 1 of 46 patients with LC-DCP fixation.
CONCLUSION
Severe comminuted or displaced fractures, long operation time and underlying disease were related with postoperative complications, especially such as infection. For male patients or athletes with high activity, the stronger fixation device than usual fixation device such as the anatomical reconstruction plate is needed, and vigorous activities should be postponed until complete bone union.

MeSH Terms

Accidents, Traffic
Athletes
Clavicle
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Male
Postoperative Complications