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. 2011;66(4):635-9.
doi: 10.1590/s1807-59322011000400019.

Functional outcomes of conservatively treated clavicle fractures

Mohd Yazid Bajuri  1 , S Maidin, A Rauf, M Baharuddin, S Harjeet
Affiliations

Functional outcomes of conservatively treated clavicle fractures

Mohd Yazid Bajuri et al. Clinics (Sao Paulo). 2011.

Abstract

Objective: The main aim of the study was to analyze the outcomes of clavicle fractures in adults treated non-surgically and to evaluate the clinical effects of displacement, fracture patterns, fracture location, fracture comminution, shortening and fracture union on shoulder function.

Methods: Seventy clavicle fractures were non-surgically treated in the Orthopedics Department at the Tuanku Ja'afar General Hospital, a tertiary care hospital in Seremban, Malaysia, an average of six months after injury. The clavicle fractures were treated conservatively with an arm sling and a figure-eight splint for three weeks. No attempt was made to reduce displaced fractures, and the patients were allowed immediate free-shoulder mobilization, as tolerated. They were prospectively evaluated clinically and radiographically. Shoulder function was evaluated using the Constant scoring technique.

Results: There were statistically significant functional outcome impairments in non-surgically treated clavicle fractures that correlated with the fracture type (comminution), the fracture displacement (21 mm or more), shortening (15 mm or more) and the fracture union (malunion).

Conclusion: This article reveals the need for surgical intervention to treat clavicle fractures and improve shoulder functional outcomes.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Clavicle fracture location and Constant score.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Clavicle fracture type and Constant score.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Clavicle fracture displacement and Constant score.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Clavicle fracture shortening and Constant score.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Clavicle fracture unity and Constant score.
Chart 1
Chart 1
Shoulder status after a non-surgical treatment of a clavicle fracture.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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