Short-term outcomes after surgical treatment of traumatic posterior sternoclavicular fracture-dislocations in children and adolescents.

Posterior sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) dislocations and posteriorly displaced physeal fractures of the medial clavicle require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent persistent symptoms, recurrent instability, and potential complications. The purpose of this investigation was to review one institution's experience with these injuries. A retrospective review of 13 patients with posterior SCJ fracture-dislocations was performed. Average patient age was 14.6 years, and 85% of injuries were sustained during sporting activities. Patients with posterior dislocations underwent ligament repair and those with posteriorly displaced medial clavicular physeal fractures had open reduction and suture stabilization. At an average of 22.2 months follow-up, all patients had excellent functional outcomes. There were no respiratory or neurovascular complications. Skeletally immature patients may expect excellent functional outcomes following surgery for posterior SCJ dislocations or posteriorly displaced physeal fractures of the medial clavicle.