Fractures of the middle third of the clavicle – epidemiological study of patients treated at a tertiary hospital and a classification system

BackgroundThis is an epidemiological study of patients with middle third clavicle fractures presenting to a tertiary hospital. The data is used to formulate a classification system for middle third clavicle fractures based on fracture configuration and displacement.Description of methodsPatients presenting primarily to a referral hospital with middle third clavicle fractures were identified using the PACS radiology system. The radiographs were reviewed to determine the fracture type, displacement, shortening and amount of comminution. The clinical notes of each patient were reviewed to determine the mechanism of injury, soft tissue status, neurovascular status and treatment rendered. A novel classification system was developed to describe the different fracture configurations seen in the group. The interobserver and intraobserver correlation of the classification system as well as the ability of the classification system to predict treatment were tested.Summary of resultsThree hundred and three patients w...