Aim
To assess the outcomes of management of an unstable fracture of the lateral end of the clavicle with clavicular hook plate.
Patients and methods
A total of 23 patients with displaced fracture lateral end clavicle were treated with clavicular hook plate fixation. The mean age of patients was 38.5 years (range, 28–55 years).
Results
The mean follow-up period was 20 months (range, 28–39 months). The mean fracture healing time was 12 weeks after operation. One (4.2%) patient had nonunion with good alignment without functional disability and was asymptomatic. One patient had a superficial wound infection. One patient had impingement, and his pain was resolved shortly after plate removal. AC joint arthrosis was reported in one patient. The mean constant score for the affected shoulder was 90 points (87–100), whereas the mean score for the contralateral shoulder was 96 points (92–100). The plate was removed in three (13%) patients only.
Conclusion
Clavicular hooked plate is a good method for management of lateral end clavicle fractures. It can provide stable fixation with a low rate of complications. Removal of the plate is not necessary.