Clinical and functional outcome after partial or total claviculectomy without reconstruction for oncologic causes.

BACKGROUND

To achieve clear margins in rare malignant clavicular neoplasms, claviculectomy may become necessary. This study aimed to review clinical, functional, and oncologic outcomes following partial or total claviculectomy without reconstruction.

METHODS

This study retrospectively included 15 patients from 2 tertiary sarcoma centers (mean age, 42.6 ± 20.3 years; 66.7% male patients). The median length of clinical and oncologic follow-up was 48.0 months (interquartile range [IQR], 24.0-83.5 months). Functional follow-up (Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score and QuickDASH score [short version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire]) was available in 9 patients at a median of 36.0 months (IQR, 20.0-100.0 months).

RESULTS

Of the 15 patients, 7 underwent total claviculectomy; 5, partial lateral claviculectomy; and 3, partial medial claviculectomy. No postoperative complications emerged. The median Musculoskeletal Tumor Society and QuickDASH scores at latest follow-up amounted to 26.0 points (IQR, 24.0-29.0 points) and 18.0 points (IQR, 11.0-22.0 points), respectively. Notably, scores tended to be lower in patients who underwent total claviculectomy (n = 2) in comparison to partial claviculectomy (n = 7).

CONCLUSION

Satisfactory clinical and functional results can be achieved following partial or total claviculectomy without reconstruction, with a low complication rate and acceptable mid- to long-term function.