Coracoid Process Fracture Associated With a Distal Clavicle Fracture: A Case Report

Abstract

Background. Fracture of the distal clavicle fracture associated with a coracoid process fracture is extremely rare in the practice of an orthopedic surgeon. Therefore, there is no common approach to the treatment of patients with this type of bone injuries of the shoulder girdle. Aim of the study to demonstrate positive experience of conservative treatment of the coracoid process fracture combined with hook plate fixation for distal clavicle fracture. Case presentation. We present a rare clinical case of a closed distal clavicle fracture associated with coracoid process fracture. Trauma occurred when the patient fell down the stairs on his abducted upper limb. After examination, the distal clavicle fracture was fixed with a hook plate. Intraoperatively, X-rays showed a satisfactory position of the coracoid process of the scapula. Therefore, it was decided not to fix it additionally. CT scans three months after the surgery showed bone fragments consolidation. Removal of the hook plate and screws from the clavicle was performed. Conclusion. Presented clinical case illustrates successful treatment result of this type of fractures without fixation of the coracoid process fracture. The hook plating allows to stabilize bone fragments and restore ligament tension, which makes this implant non-alternative for fixation of this type of injuries.

Keywords

• acromioclavicular joint injury
• distal clavicle fracture
• coracoid process fracture
• hook plate