A clinical study on role of surgical management of clavicle fractures in adults

Abstract

Clavicle, the horizontal bone of the body fractures is seen commonly in Road traffic accidents, fall from heights and also in simple falls. The clavicle fractures account for about 5-10% of all fractures. Traditionally it is believed that conservative management is best instead of surgery for clavicle bone. Internal fixation for middle third fractures of clavicle with interlocking will not be ideal choice as the implant cannot be precontoured. Fixation with plates would be a better choice for the said situation. Similarly, fixation of lateral third fractures is also better option suggested by many authorities. To analyze methods of surgical management for the fractures of middle and lateral third parts the current study was carried out at Department of Orthopedics, Government Medical College and Hospital, Anantapuramu. An attempt is also made to study the epidemiological factors associated with fracture of the clavicle. At the end of the study it can be concluded that the middle and lateral third fractures of clavicle are common in younger age group males who met with road traffic accidents. As for as surgical management is concerned, internal fixation with plates and screws for middle third fractures and tension band wiring for lateral third fractures of Clavicle would be ideal choice as they allow for early rehabilitation, less chances for infection and pose least number of complications.