Intramedullary nailing of dislocated midshaft clavicle fractures with the Rockwood Clavicle Pin, a retrospective study

Purpose: This retrospective study evaluated the outcome after intramedullary nailing with the Rockwood Clavicle Pin (RCP) for acute displaced middle third clavicle fractures in adults.Methods: Of 84 included patients treated for this fracture 2003–2009, 66 (79%) were evaluated. Of these, 52 (79%) were re-examined, including fluoroscopy, while 14 patients (21%) were evaluated by mailed questionnaire. Primary outcome was Constant score (CS), secondary outcomes included: Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), healing rate at follow up, complications, and cosmetic appearance. Results: Patients were re-evaluated with a mean follow-up of 39 months (range 13-96). Mean CS at follow up was 90 (range 55-100) and mean shoulder function measured with the SSV was 93 (range 36-100). Three (6%) of the re-examined patients had a non-union at follow up. Twelve (18%) had wound problems, with exposure of the lateral part of the pin in five patients (8%). There were no deep infections but seven patients (11%) were treated for superficial wound infections. Breakage of the implant occurred in one case (2%).Conclusions: Treatment of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures with the RCP results in good clinical outcome and a high patient satisfaction with a high healing rate. However, the technique is associated with postoperative complications