Functional Outcome of Clavicle Hook Plate For Fractures of Lateral End Of Clavicle & Acromioclavicular Joint Disruption.

Abstract

Fractures of lateral end of clavicle account for 15% of all clavicle fractures (1) whereas 9% of shoulder girdle injuries involve acromioclavicular joint damage (2). These fractures are associated with disruption of the coracoclavicular ligaments and are unstable due to four displacing forces that retard union. The nonunion rate is approximately 30%, causing pain and impaired function of shoulder girdle and upper limb and hence surgery is recommended for unstable distal clavicular fractures (3). A variety of surgical treatment options have been developed with varying success over the years. Currently clavicle hook plate is accepted as a surgical option for these injuries. This study is 2 pronged- analyzes the results of clavicle hook plate compared with the literature and also evaluates the need for repair of soft tissue structures around the acromioclavicular joint. We will be analyzing the results based on clinical outcomes and radiological assessment so as to ascertain the efficacy of this procedure.