3.5 mm LCP Superior Clavicle
The 3.5 mm LCP clavicle plate system is indicated for fixation of fractures, malunions, nonunions, and osteotomies of the clavicle. It is part of the 3.5 mm LCP clavicle set which consists of the already available 3.5 mm LCP superior anterior clavicle plate and the future 3.5 mm LCP anterior clavicle plate.
The existing 3.5 mm LCP superior anterior clavicle was designed to fit on the superior end laterally and twist midshaft to fit anteriorly on the medial aspect. The new 3.5 mm LCP superior clavicle plate design has removed the twist in the plate. A lateral bow was put in the plate to enhance plate fit. The flat superior design allows more flexibility in placement. A K-wire hole was added to the distal end of the plate as a plate holder. Notches in the plate facilitate easier contouring that may be required in some cases. Diverging and cross-hatching screw pattern in the lateral end increase fixation strength.
Fig 1 3.5 mm LCP superior clavicle.
The 3.5 mm LCP superior clavicle comes in left and right versions and are available in lengths of 6-, 7-, and 8-hole plates with or without lateral extension. The plates use 3.5 mm locking screws in the shaft and feature 2.7 mm locking screws in the lateral extension, also allowing for an increased number of screw positions laterally.
Fig 2 3.5 mm LCP superior anterior clavicle.
To ensure an anatomical fit, 49 bones from the University of Tennessee collection (a modern collection of bones, with the earliest specimen from 1981) were scanned spanning all age groups and sexes. The majority were younger, male specimens, mimicking expected patient population. Surgery is straightforward as in most cases no or only minor additional contouring of the plate is required thus minimizing surgery time.
Fig 3 3.5 mm LCP superior clavicle.
Fig 4 3.5 mm LCP superior anterior clavicle.
A 22-year-old man sustained an open clavicle fracture after a motorcycle injury.
Fig 1ab Preoperative x-rays.
Fig 2ab Postoperative images.
Fig 3ab X-rays taken 3 months postoperatively.
Case provided by Harry A Hoyen III, Cleveland, USA
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