[The anatomical precontoured Meves compression plate: surgical treatment of clavicular nonunion]

Abstract

Background: Pseudarthroses of the clavicle after fractures of the medial third often present with local pain, compromised shoulder function, or neurovascular symptoms. Reconstruction of normal clavicular anatomy and solid fusion is a prerequisite for good clinical outcome after surgical treatment. In this study, 24 patients with clavicular pseudarthrosis were treated with the anatomical precontoured Meves plate. In 11 patients, additional bone grafting was done.

Method: Nineteen patients could be reexamined with a mean follow-up of 74.5 months. In all of them, solid fusion was achieved.

Results: The Constant score improved from 70.4 points preoperatively up to 82.5 points postoperatively (89.3% age-related). Sixteen patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the operative result.

Conclusion: In our patients, secure healing of clavicular nonunion was achieved with the anatomical precontoured Meves plate, with good or excellent clinical outcomes.