J Korean Fract Soc.  2012 Jan;25(1):38-45. 10.12671/jkfs.2012.25.1.38.

Complications of Hook-Plate Fixation for Distal Clavicle Fractures

• An SH
• Kim HC
• Kim KY
• Lee JH
• Yoon SH

• KMID: 1434109
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12671/jkfs.2012.25.1.38

Abstract

PURPOSE
To report on the complications of hook-plate fixation for distal clavicle fractures.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Eighteen patients who underwent surgery for distal clavicle fracture with a hook-plate from April 2008 to April 2011 were enrolled with a minimum of 4 months follow-up. The reduction was qualified and evaluated according to the radiologic findings. We analyzed the results by UCLA score, Kona's functional evaluation, and VAS pain score.
RESULTS
By radiologic evaluation, 17 of 18 cases showed anatomical reduction and solid unions. Although satisfactory results were found in the clinical study as shown by the UCLA score, Kona's functional evaluation, and VAS pain score, complications arose in 7 cases, including osteolysis of the acromion in 2 cases, nonunion in 1 case, periprosthetic fracture in 2 cases, subacromial pain in 1 case, and skin irritation in 1 case. 2 cases of all required reoperation.
CONCLUSION
To reduce the complications of the hook-plate, a precise surgical technique and the choice of an appropriate size for the hook-plate are needed. We suggest that early removal of the plate is necessary to decrease the risk of subacromial impingement and erosion in hook-plate fixation.

Keyword

Clavicle; Distal clavicle fracture; Hook plate; Complication

MeSH Terms

Acromion
Clavicle
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Osteolysis
Periprosthetic Fractures
Skin