Plate Fixation of Displaced Midshaft Clavicular Fractures

Michael D. McKee, MD

Traditionally clavicular fractures have been treated nonoperatively, even when substantial displacement has been present. However, displaced midshaft clavicular fractures have been shown to be problematic in certain cases. Recent studies have demonstrated that the union rate after midshaft clavicular fractures is not as favorable as once thought. A meta-analysis of recent studies showed that the rate of nonunion of displaced midshaft clavicular fractures was 15.1% after nonoperative care compared with 2.2% after plate fixation. Moreover, malunion of the clavicle has been found to be a definite clinical entity. In a recent prospective randomized trial, functional outcomes and patient satisfaction following plate fixation of displaced midshaft clavicular fracture were superior to those following nonoperative treatment of such fractures. In this JBJS video supplement to the recent article, Michael D. McKee, MD, FRCS(C) and the Canadian Orthopaedic Trauma Society describe the technique for open reduction and plate fixation of midshaft clavicular fractures.

Material Covered

• Preoperative Exam
• Indications
• Patient Positioning
• Exposure
• Reduction
• Fixation
• Avoiding complications

Specifications

• Total Run Time: 25:59 minutes
• Catalog Number: 7064
• VJO Publication Date: September, 2007