Superiority of Suture Endobutton Augmentation in Type 2b Clavicle Fractures Fixation Using Locking Plate

Objective: Instability in distal clavicle fractures with impaired integrity of the CC ligament poses a serious risk for nonunion, necessitating surgical intervention. Despitea consensus onthe need for surgery in cases of unstable distal clavicle fractures, various surgical techniques are available. Aim of this study is to evaluate the radiological and functional outcomes of CC augmentation using the suture endobutton technique for Neer type 2b clavicle fractures. Methods: 42 patients who met the criteria for this retrospective study divided into two groups; Group 1 (locking plate with CC augmentation) and Group 2 (locking plate without CC augmentation). Demographic data, the Constant–Murley scores(CS), union time, range of motion, complications, and implant failures during the follow-up period were recorded. Results: 13 (31.0%) patients were female and 29 (69.0%) were male.The mean age was 40.5±11.5 years. Significant differences were found in union time (week) ( t (40) = –2.11, p = 0.04) and the 6th-month CS ( t (40) = 4.19, P = 0.01). No significant difference was observed in postoperative complications between the groups ( p > 0.05). Conclusion: CC augmentation with a suture endobutton in type 2b distal clavicle fractures, resulted in more favorable short-term functional and radiological outcomes. Level of Evidence : Level 3; Retrospective comparative study; Treatment study