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. 2012:6:482-7.
doi: 10.2174/1874325001206010482. Epub 2012 Nov 16.

Intramedullary fixation of diaphyseal clavicle fractures using the rockwood clavicle pin: review of 86 cases

William J Marlow  1 , Peter Ralte, Syam Pk Morapudi, Rashpal Bassi, Jochen Fischer, Mohammad Waseem
Affiliations

Intramedullary fixation of diaphyseal clavicle fractures using the rockwood clavicle pin: review of 86 cases

William J Marlow et al. Open Orthop J. 2012.

Abstract

Aim: This study reports the safety, efficacy and functional and patient centred outcomes of the largest published series of patients treated with the Rockwood clavicle pin (intramedullary device) to date.

Patients and methods: A retrospective review of case notes, radiographs and follow-up by questionnaire was conducted. 86 patients were operated upon, 70 for acute fractures (group A) and 16 for non-union (group B).

Results: Rate of non-union was 2 (2.9%) in group A and 0 in group B. Mean Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores were 5.9 for group A and 8.7 for group B. Satisfaction was rated as good or excellent in 61 (96.8%) of responders and all patients would have the procedure again. Pin prominence was the predominant complication in both groups and all patients underwent a second procedure for metalwork removal.

Discussion: Rockwood clavicle pins are as effective as plates in achieving union and maintaining length, however the advantages of this less invasive technique should be weighed against the common complication of pin prominence and the inconvenience of removal of metalwork in all cases.

Keywords: Clavicle [A02.835.232.087.227]; Fracture Fixation; Fracture Healing [G16.100.856.891.500]; Fractures; Intramedullary [E04.555.300.300.300]; Malunited [C26.404.249]; Minimally Invasive [E04.800].; Rockwood Clavicle Pin; Surgical Procedures; Ununited [C26.404.468].

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Figures

Fig. (1)
Fig. (1)
Three consecutive AP radiographs showing: (A) Displaced comminuted acute mid shaft-clavicle fracture; (B) Intra-operative placement of the Rockwood Clavicle Pin; (C) United fracture, following pin removal, three months post-fixation.
Fig. (2)
Fig. (2)
Postoperative AP radiograph showing the Rockwood Clavicle Pin (P). The threaded pin tip (TP) is seen here secured in the medial fragment. Two locking nuts (LN) are fitted posterolaterally to compress and secure the fracture.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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