• Wolfgang Grechenig, Nima Heidari, Ottmal Leitgoeb, Walter Prager, Wolfgang Pichler, and Annelie M Weinberg.
• Department of Traumatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
• Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc. 2011 Jan 1; 45 (2): 115-9.

ObjectivesCurrent literature describes improved clinical outcomes and a minor rate of pseudoarthrosis following operatively treated clavicular fractures. We investigated the feasibility of using a standard 3.5 mm AO locking compression plate (LCP) of adequate length for the stabilisation of mid-shaft fractures of the clavicle.MethodsThe length and acromial and diaphyseal curvature depths were measured in 49 cadaveric clavicles. We then assessed how well the 6, 7, 8 and 9-hole plates fit on the clavicles.ResultsThe mean clavicular length was 155±12 mm, with a mean acromial curvature of 18.1±3.7 mm and a mean diaphyseal curvature of 12 mm±4 mm. The optimum plate for the clavicle was a 7-hole LCP, providing adequate fixation in 48 of the 49 clavicles.ConclusionThe described technique for plate osteosynthesis of the clavicle with AO locking compression plate is feasible and results in a biomechanically strong construct for mid-shaft fractures. With the use of a locking plate, comminuted fractures may be bridged without a reduction in the strength of the construct.

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