European journal of orthopaedic surgery & traumatology : orthopedie traumatologie
Immediate weight bearing after dual orthogonal plate fixation of clavicle fractures: a propensity-matched retrospective cohort study
By Monhollen A, Kolostov L, Kolb N and 4 others.
Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate whether immediate weight bearing as tolerated (WBAT) following open reduction and internal fixation of clavicle fractures with a dual mini-fragmentation plate construct increases complications, implant failure, or worsens functional and patient-reported outcomes compared to a restricted weight-bearing protocol.
Methods
Adult patients (≥ 18 years) who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of a clavicle fracture were retrospectively identified and stratified into restricted weight-bearing or weight bearing as tolerated (WBAT) cohorts. Cohorts were matched for demographic and injury characteristics. All WBAT fractures were treated with dual orthogonal mini-fragmentation plate fixation, whereas restricted weight-bearing fractures were treated with either single- or dual-plate fixation. Outcomes included complications (infection, wound dehiscence, hardware prominence, implant failure, and loss of reduction) and PROMIS Physical Function and Pain Interference scores.