Clavicle fractures are a fairly common injury that occurs in the upper extremity. These fractures are usually seen following...
Clavicle Locking Plates
Evolution of Clavicle Locking Plates
Clavicle fractures are commonly treated with a plate and screws. Most implants allow for a combination of locking or non-locking screws. The evolution of locking plates has dynamical changed operative treatment of fractures. Locking screws are a type of screw that locks into the plate that allows creation of a stiff fixed angle construct. For clavicle surgery, an incision is commonly made directly superior or anterior on the clavicle. Due to the clavicle being covered by minimal soft tissue, occasionally these plates can be very prominent and aesthetically displeasing. Once the fracture is healed, the plates may be removed if so desired.
Technology Spotlight
Zimmer A.L.P.S® Clavicle Plating System
The Zimmer A.L.P.S® clavicle plating system that is available for treatment of clavicle fractures. This implant specifically is fairly low profile, ideally leading to decreased prominence following surgical intervention. Anterior and superior plates options are available to the surgeon. The plate is also able to be contoured to the patient’s natural anatomy as needed. Unique to the A.L.P.S system are specific instrumentation that help prevent any neurovascular damage as well as F.A.S.T Tabs® and relief nodes that allow plate bending and breakaway as needed.
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The goal of surgical treatment of the clavicle is to restore the natural anatomy, decrease pain, and allow optimal...
