Plating versus conservative treatment in mid shaft fractures of clavicle: A comparative study

Abstract Objectives Mid shaft clavicle fractures have traditionally been treated by conservative means with good outcome. ORIF with plating is an upcoming option to improve outcome further. Aim of this study is to compare the outcome of anterosuperior plating with conservative treatment. Methods The study was conducted over a period of one year, with 50 skeletally mature closed mid shaft fractures included. Alternate patients were operated using a 3.5 mm anterosuperior LCP. The functional outcome was evaluated by the Constant and Murley score at the end of 3 months from injury. The fracture union time and associated problems were also compared. Results In the operative group, 19 patients (76%) had excellent functional outcome, 4 patients (16%) had good functional outcome and 2 patients (8%) had fair functional outcome. In the operated group, 2 patients (8%) had hypertrophic skin scar and in 2 patients (8%) plate prominence occurred. In 1 patient (4%), infection (superficial) occurred. In 1 patient (4%), plate loosening occurred. In 2 patients (8%), delayed union occurred which went for malunion and in 1 patient (4%), plate breakage occurred. In the non-operative group, 7 patients (28%) had good functional outcome, 8 patients (32%) had fair functional outcome and 10 patients (40%) had poor functional outcome. Conclusion In this study, early primary plate fixation of comminuted mid shaft clavicular fractures results in improved patient-oriented outcomes, improved surgeon-oriented outcomes, earlier return to function and decreased rates of non-union and malunion.