Title of the manuscript: study of complications associated with plate fixation of middle one third clavicle shaft fracture

Abstract

1.1 Background: Both non-operative and surgical methods have been described for the management of this injury. Good outcome with high union rates and low complication rates has been reported with various surgical modalities. However, operative treatment has also got its own disadvantages. 1.2 Aim: To study the complications associated with plate fixation of middle one third clavicle shaft fracture. 1.3 Material and Methods: Thirty cases of mid-shaft clavicle fractures who underwent locking plate fixation were studied for complications and outcome. Those patients who attended regular follow-up and had recorded Constant-Murley Scores (CMS) were included. 1.4 Results: 28 fractures (93.3%) united at or before three months. 6 patients had hypertrophic skin scar and in 5 patients plate prominence occurred out of which one underwent implant removal, delayed union in 2 patients and plate breakage in 1 patient and restricted range of movements in 1 patient.23 (76.6%) had excellent functional outcome. 1.5 Conclusion: The low implant failure rate and complication rate in our study indicates that pre-contoured locking plate fixation is a safe procedure with excellent results in majority of patients.