Late function and complications of hook plate implantation for distal-third clavicle fractures: a retrospective study

In this study, w e examined data for 61 patients with Neer type II clavicle fractures treated with hook plate implantation between January 2008 and February 2011. The patients were divided into three groups depending on when the plates were removed after the fractures had healed: early removal ( 6 months, n=6). All patients underwent clinical and radiographic follow-up. Shoulder function was evaluated using the Constant shoulder score. All 61 patients were followed in the outpatient department for a median of 18 months. All fractures had healed. The mean Constant shoulder score was greater, indicating better function, in the early than delayed removal and retained plate groups (96 [range 89–100] vs . 77 [65–89] and 61 [57–78], respectively; p =0.000). The complication rate was 10, 22.9, and 50% in the early and delayed removal and retained plate groups, respectively ( p =0.043). In summary, the timing of the removal of the hook plate for distal clavicle fractures plays an important role in subsequent shoulder function and complications.