Purpose
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of
Neer type IIb distal clavicle fractures treated with anatomical locking plate fixation
combined with coracoclavicular ligament augmentation.
Methods
Twelve patients with Neer Type IIb distal clavicle fractures treated with anatomical
locking plate fixation combined with suture anchor augmentation of the coracoclavicular
ligament, were retrospectively studied. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the
Constant score and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score. Coracoclavicular
distance was measured on plain radiographs.
Results
All patients were reexamined at a mean follow-up of 26.3 months (range, 25–30 months).
Bony union occurred in all cases within 12 weeks and no major complications were encountered.
At the final follow-up, the mean Constant score was 94 (range, 87–100) and the DASH
score was 10.4 (range, 2–20). The mean postoperative coracoclavicular distance on
the injured side was decreased by 40% compared with the preoperative status.
Conclusions
Surgical fixation of Neer type IIb distal clavicle fractures using anatomical locking
plate fixation combined with suture anchor augmentation of the coracoclavicular ligament
was associated with a satisfactory functional outcome and low complication rate.
Type of study/level of evidence
Therapeutic IV.
Key words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: September 16, 2017
Accepted:
August 1,
2017
Received:
August 23,
2016
Footnotes
This study was financially supported by the health project grant from the Science and Technology Department of Hangzhou City, China, No. 20130633B48.
Identification
Copyright
© 2017 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. All rights reserved.
