Case Reports
Use of an Absorbable Plate in the Management of a Clavicle Fracture in an Adolescent
Am J Orthop. 2012 January;41(1):29-32
By
Edmonds EW
Author and Disclosure Information
Eric W. Edmonds, MD
Dr. Edmonds is Orthopedic Surgeon, Rady Children’s Hospital and Health Center, San Diego, California, and Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopedics, University of California, San Diego, California.
Management of clavicle fractures continues to evolve. Indications for operative management seem to be expanding, particularly in athletic youth. Surgical intervention has potential complications, many associated with use of metal implants. To my knowledge, this case report is the first to describe use of a biodegradable implant. The subcutaneous position of the clavicle makes it ideal for fixation with a biodegradable implant in which no second surgery is required for implant removal.