Publication:

Comparing functional outcome in lateral end clavicle fracture after conservative and plating

Background Fractures of the clavicle have been traditionally treated non- operatively but has been associated with various postoperative complications. In this study, we analyzed the outcomes of the operative management and compare its results with conservative treatment considering it as standard treatment option.

Methods The present study was carried out at the Department of Orthopedics, DY Patil Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai. Open fractures, fractures associated with complication like head injury with associated other bone injuries were included in this study. We excluded patients less than 18 years of age, patients with middle third fracture of clavicle and patients with medial end clavicle fracture. The fractures were classified according to Robinson’s classification. Patients were followed up every week for 4 weeks then at 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months and 1 year. The functional outcomes were assessed by Constant and Murley score.

Results We included 48 patients in the study, 34 of which were males, average age of the patients was 37.53±7.64 years. 23 injuries were on the left. There was statistically significant better union times with operative management (p=0.034). Various complications were observed like infection, implant failure, man union, non-union, deformity and skin infections, statistically seen more in patients who underwent conservative management. Overall, patients experienced excellent and good results with operative management in 6 and 12 patients respectively.

Conclusions Operative treatment gave statistically significant functional outcome and early healing compared to conservatively treated in displaced, communited lateral end clavicle fractures.