J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2022 Apr;57(2):135-141. 10.4055/jkoa.2022.57.2.135.

Treatment Results for Unstable Distal Clavicle Fractures Using Hybrid Fixations with Finger Trap Wire and Plate

• Yu JS
• Yang BS
• Park BM
• Kwon OS

• KMID: 2528429
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.2022.57.2.135

Abstract

Purpose
This study assessed the results of surgical treatment for Neer type-II and type-V unstable distal clavicle fractures via hybrid fixation with a locking compression plate and finger trap wire.
Materials and Methods
From September 2016 to April 2018, 15 patients treated for Neer type-II and type-V unstable distal clavicle fractures using hybrid fixation were analyzed retrospectively. The clinical results were analyzed based on the radiological healing time, range of motion of the shoulder joint, American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score, and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score.
Results
The range of motion of the shoulder joint completely recovered to the normal range within 9.2 weeks on average (6−24 weeks). Furthermore, the follow-up of the clinical trial showed excellent results, including an ASES score of 98.5±2.3 and an UCLA score of 34.2±1.3. In addition, fracture union was successfully achieved in all cases, and was identified during week 15 on average.
Conclusion
For the treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures, hybrid fixation is a useful surgical method with excellent clinical outcomes through rapid recovery of the range of motion of the shoulder joint after surgery.

Keyword

distal clavicle fracture; hybrid fixation; finger trap wire