Utilization of Nitinol Shape Memory Plates in the Surgical Treatment of Displaced Clavicle Fractures

Abstract

Aim: While conservative and surgical options exist for treating displaced clavicle fractures, surgical intervention is often necessary, particularly in cases of comminuted fractures. This study aimed to assess the outcomes of surgical treatment using nitinol plates for displaced clavicle fractures. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 19 patients with displaced midshaft clavicle fractures who underwent surgery with shape memory nitinol plates for clavicle fixation, all performed by the same surgeon. Data collection spanned a 7-year period from 2014 to 2021. Radiological and clinical assessments were conducted at a minimum 1-year follow-up. Results: Nineteen patients (19 males), with a median age of 40.4 (range: 18-67) years, were included in the study. No major complications were observed during follow-up. Results indicated that 18 of 19 patients (94.7%) had fully recovered clinically and radiologically at the 1-year follow-up. Conclusion: The use of nitinol plates in the surgical treatment of displaced clavicle fractures demonstrated successful outcomes. We believe that it can be safely preferred in selected cases because of its low complication rate.

Keywords

• displaced clavicle fracture
• clavicle fracture fixation
• shape memory nitinol plate