Outcome following management of unstable lateral end clavicle fractures with locking plate and coracoid anchor augmentation

Abstract

Background Management of complex lateral end clavicle fractures with coraco-clavicular ligament disruption can be challenging. Methods We prospectively analysed 19 (17 M:2F) patients from January 2014 to June 2016. Six patients had intra-articular fractures (Edinburgh-3B2) and the remaining were extra-articular (3B1). All patients had open reduction internal fixation with lateral end locking plate augmented with a coracoid anchor. All patients were evaluated at the final follow-up by American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon score (ASES), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), return to work, sports and radiographs. Results At a mean follow-up of 54 months (range 37–64), 19 patients were available for analysis. Mean age of patients was 34 years (range 24–65). At final follow-up DASH score was 1.66 (range 0–5); ASES score was 98.14 (93.3–100) and OSS was 46.6 (42–48). There was no difference in the functional outcome between 3B1 and 3B2 fractures (DASH – p(0.51); ASES –  p(0.44); OSS – p(0.69)). All patients returned to preinjury level of function, sports and work. Five patients needed implant removal and three developed capsulitis that resolved with conservative treatment. Conclusion Locking plate fixation, augmented with coracoid anchor is an effective option in the management of these complex injuries. The need for implant removal is reduced (26%) and there is no difference in the functional outcome between 3B1 and 3B2 fractures.