Stress fracture of the clavicle leading to nonunion secondary to coracoclavicular reconstruction with Dacron

Abstract

We have reported the case of a nonunion of a clavicle fracture in which the Dacron had eroded the bone and acted as a stress riser contributing to the fracture. The Dacron then became interposed in the fracture site preventing union.

Addition of a Suture Anchor for Coracoclavicular Fixation to a Superior Locking Plate Improves Stability of Type IIB Distal Clavicle Fractures

“…16,25 The CC fixation alone or in combination with wire fixation can be associated with delayed union 22 or stress fracture of the clavicle caused by bone erosion from the suture. 26 The advent of precontoured plates for the distal clavicle allows increased purchase in the distal fragment, improved rigid fixation options without the potential need to violate the AC joint, and a second procedure. Many of these benefits were shown in a retrospective study comparing hook plates to superior locked plates; more peri-implant fractures, hardware failures, and hardware removal were seen in patients treated with hook plates.…”

Acromioclavicular joint injuries: indications for treatment and treatment options

“…15 Loop fixation techniques with Mersilene tapes (Ethicon) or other nonabsorbable suture such as Fiberwire (Arthrex, Naples FL) can be complicated by erosion though the clavicle or coracoid process. 27,61 Techniques that pass grafts or synthetic material under the coracoid process pose a risk of brachial plexus or axillary artery injury. 22 Reported complications of flipbutton fixation techniques include coracoid fracture, clavicle fracture, loss of reduction, and erosion of the device through the clavicle.…”

A pseudo-iatrogenic case of medial clavicular fracture

“…The Dacron 1 was initially used to stabilise the acromioclavicular joint. Interposition of the Dacron 1 prevented union of the fracture [9].…”