Titanium Elastic Nail System for Middle One-Third Clavicle Fractures: Impact on Functional Recovery.

Abstract

Introduction: Clavicle fractures are a common traumatic injury, often treated conservatively. However, displaced midshaft fractures present risks of complications such as delayed union and malunion. Surgical intervention, including open reduction and internal fixation and titanium elastic nailing system (TENS), offers better outcomes for these fractures. This study evaluates the effectiveness of TENS in treating midshaft clavicle fractures. Functional recovery was assessed using the Constant-Murley score, while radiological outcomes tracked fracture union.

Aim and objective: The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of TENS in treating midshaft clavicle fractures, assess functional recovery using the Constant-Murley score, and analyze associated complications.

Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 35 patients aged 16-60 with middle-third clavicle fractures, treated with TENS at Chettinad Hospital between August 2022 and April 2024. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Constant-Murley score, and radiographs were taken to evaluate fracture union.

Results: Results showed favorable outcomes with TENS, including a mean union time of 4.55 months and a mean Constant score of 81.7 after 6 months. Complications were minimal, including infection, intraoperative blood loss, and hardware irritation. TENS demonstrated its value as a minimally invasive, effective option for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures, providing both cosmetic and early functional benefits.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated that TENS is a safe and effective treatment for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures, offering faster recovery, improved functional outcomes, fewer complications, and better cosmetic results, fulfilling its objective of assessing TENS effectiveness.