THE SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CLAVICLE FRACTURES IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Clavicle fractures account for approximately 14% of fractures of the bones in children, most of which are diaphyseal and proximal. While conservative treatment is still effective for straightforward fractures, for complex fractures or when anatomical alignment cannot be attained, surgery must be performed. Intramedullary osteosynthesis using titanium elastic nails (TEN) has become the operation of choice in children because it is minimally invasive with good biocompatibility and enables stable fixation. Compared to traditional methods of plating or Kirschner wires, TEN offers the advantages of decreased immobilization, decreased complications, and earlier return to function. While complications like migration of hardware or infection are theoretically possible, titanium elastic nail technique is a safe and effective method for operative clavicle fracture fixation in the pediatric population.