Double semi-tubular plating of clavicle using a piggyback technique--an alternative way of treating clavicle mid-shaft fractures in young patients

Abstract

The majority of clavicle fractures unite uneventfully. Indications for operative surgery are limited, with high rates of complications. We describe our results with an alternative cost effective method of treating these injuries in young patients. It is a retrospective series of 20 patients treated between January 2005 and January 2009 with a "piggy back" technique using double plating with two 3.5 mm drill hole semitubular plates. All patients were assessed with DASH (Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand) score at last review. Average time to union was 12.5 weeks. The average DASH score was 834 (0-34.2). There was one case each of non-union, implant removal and symptomatic numbness around the scar. The overall complication rate was 15% with 5% incidence of non-union. The results compare favourably with previously published series. We propose that this technique allows a cost effective way of treating these fractures in young patients, with a high patient satisfaction rate.