Surgical treatment of Neer type-II fractures of the distal clavicle

Abstract

Background and purpose Type-II distal clavicle fractures according to the Neer classification are generally operated because of the high non-union rate after non-operative treatment. Several surgical techniques have been developed in order to reduce the non-union rate and improve functional outcome. This meta-analysis overviews the available surgical techniques for type-II distal clavicular fractures.

Methods We searched the literature systematically. No comparative studies were found. 21 studies (8 prospective and 13 retrospective cohort studies) were selected for the meta-analysis. Data were pooled for 5 surgical outcome measures: function, time to union, time to implant removal, major complications, and minor complications.

Results The 21 studies selected included 350 patients with a distal clavicular fracture. Union was achieved in 98% of the patients. Functional outcome was similar between the treatment modalities. Hook-plate fixation was associated with an 11-fold increased risk of major complications compared to intramedullary fixation and a 24-fold increased risk compared to suture anchoring.

Interpretation If surgical treatment of a distal clavicle fracture is considered, a fixation procedure with a low risk of complications and a high union rate such as plate fixation or intramedullary fixation should be used. The hook-plate fixation had an increased risk of implant-related complications.

SAS, HN, PK, and IS designed the study protocol. SAS and HN selected the articles and gathered the data. Statistical analysis was performed by KHJH and TS. All the authors contributed to writing and presentation of the manuscript.

No competing interests declared.