Surgical Versus Conservative Treatment in  The Management of Displaced Mid Shaft  Clavicular Fractures: A Clinical Study

Karibasappa A G; Srinath.S.R

Volume : III, Issue : II, February - 2014

Surgical Versus Conservative Treatment in The Management of Displaced Mid Shaft Clavicular Fractures: A Clinical Study

Karibasappa A G, Srinath. S. R

Abstract :

Aim: To compare the results of surgical treatment of Acute displaced midshaft clavicular fracture with those treated conservatively in terms of rate of fracture union, complications and functional out come. Background: Traditionally majority of mid shaft clavicular fractures unite with good functional outcome following conservative treatment, may be no longer valid for all mid shaft clavicular fractures. Many studies have shown a relatively high incidence of non union and limitation of shoulder function. Material & methods: 50 patients of Acute displaced mid shaft clavicular fractures were treated either by surgical methods (plate osteo synthesis, n 25, group I) or conservative methods (n 25, group II). Patients were followed up on 3,6,12 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year, Time taken for fracture union, complications were compared and Functional outcome was assessed using DASH score and Constant shoulder score. Results: All the fractures in group I united with two cases of asymptomatic mol union (8%) and one case of delayed union (4%). Whereas in group II, 4 cases of nonunion (16%), 6 cases of asymptomatic mol union (24%) and delayed union in 2 cases (8%) were observed. Time taken for fracture union was shorter in group I compared to group II. Functional outcome was significantly good in surgically treated group at follow-ups. Conclusions : In this study ORIF with plate osteosynthesis of acute displaced mid shaft clavicular fractures resulted in faster fracture union with less complications and good Functional outcome in group I compared to those who were treated conservatively. (Group II).