Comparing two autologous bone grafting techniques to treat clavicular midshaft atrophic nonunion: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND

Open reduction, superior plate (SP) fixation, and autologous cancellous granular bone grafting (ACGBG) are common strategies for treating clavicular midshaft atrophic nonunion (CMAN). We aimed to compare the radiological findings and clinical effects of two autologous cancellous bone grafts (ACBGs) and those of single SP fixation, to treat CMAN.

METHODS

This retrospective study comprised 62 patients admitted to our hospital with CMAN (ACGBG with single SP fixation between March 2012 and October 2017, 32 patients; autologous cancellous structured bone grafting [ACSBG] with single SP fixation between November 2017 and May 2021, 30 patients). Patient visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain and disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) scores, obtained preoperatively and at final follow-up, were recorded and analyzed. Statistical differences between the ACGBG and ACSBG groups were assessed using Fisher's exact and two-sample independent t tests.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of patient demographics or the incidence of complications. VAS and DASH scores decreased significantly from the preoperative day to 9 months postoperatively in both groups, but this difference was not statistically significant at final follow-up. However, at 3 and 6 months postoperatively, compared with mean VAS and DASH scores in the ACGBG group, the ACSBG group showed lower pain and dysfunction scores (p < 0.05). The mean fracture healing times were 15.2 (range, 12-20) and 18.6 (range, 12-32) weeks in the ACSBG and ACGBG groups, respectively (p = 0.01). One case of plate breakage occurred in the ACGBG group at 5 months postoperatively, with recovery following ACSBG revision with single SP fixation.

CONCLUSIONS

ACSBG combined with single SP fixation is a promising and effective alternative technique for promoting bone union and postoperative early functional rehabilitation in treating CMAN.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3.