Abstract
Introduction: Clavicular non-union, although rare, is a debilitating and often painful condition. The aim of our study was to assess the long-term functional and radiological outcome of clavicular non-unions treated with open reduction and bone grafting in a regional trauma unit. A total of 24 non-unions treated between 1994 and 2001 were retrospectively analysed using chart and radiological review and subsequently assessed with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons DASH questionnaire.
Results: There were 13 males and 10 females with a median age of 38 years (range 21–65). One patient had bilateral injuries. The average time from injury to operation was 10.3 months (range 3–29) and the average follow-up post-operatively was 42.1 months (range 6–75). All patients were treated using a DCP or reconstruction plate with autogenous bone grafting. Twenty-two of the 24 non-unions eventually healed. The plate was eventually removed in 3 cases all due to pain. Analysis of the DASH upper limb scoring assessment indicated a slightly higher level of disability in the treated group than found in the normal population, but this was not significant and the procedure proved successful and well tolerated by most patients.
Conclusion: We conclude that the long-term outcome results of this procedure indicate it to be a well-tolerated and successful operation in treating the disability and pain associated with clavicular non-union. Most patients return to a daily level of function close to the general population.
The abstracts were prepared by Mr Ray Moran. Correspondence should be addressed to him at Irish Orthopaedic Associaton, Secretariat, c/o Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital, Finglas, Dublin 11.
