Treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures (Neer type IIb): a modified system using a miniature locking plate with a single button

Abstract

Distal clavicle fractures are common in patients with shoulder injuries. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical outcomes of a novel fixation technique using a miniature locking plate with a single button in patients with distal clavicle fractures associated with coracoclavicular ligament disruption. The study involved seven patients with distal clavicle fractures with a follow-up period of 12 months. All patients were diagnosed with type IIb fractures according to the Neer classification. The distal clavicle fracture was fixed with a miniature locking plate, and the coracoclavicular ligaments were reconstructed using a single button. Functional outcomes were assessed at the final follow-up visit. At the 1-year follow-up, all patients had achieved radiographic union. There were no cases of nonunion or osteolysis. The mean Constant score at the final follow-up was 88 ± 5.13 (range, 78–93); the mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 19.17 ± 7.70 (range, 11.67–25); and the mean University of California Los Angeles score was 30 ± 2.52 (range, 25–33). In summary, internal fixation using a miniature locking plate and coracoclavicular reconstruction with a single button is a reliable surgical technique for restoring stability in patients with Neer type IIb distal clavicle fractures.