Open Reduction and Suture Fixation of Acute Sternoclavicular Fracture-Dislocations in Children

• Published in: JBJS essential surgical techniques 2020-07, Vol.10 (3), p.e19.00074-e19.00074
• Main Authors: Swarup, Ishaan, Hughes, Michael S, Cazzulino, Alejandro, Spiegel, David A, Shah, Apurva S
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Subspecialty Procedures
• ISSN: 2160-2204; 2160-2204
• DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.ST.19.00074

Acute sternoclavicular fracture-dislocation is associated with high-energy trauma and is being increasingly recognized in children . These injuries are associated with compression of mediastinal structures and can be life-threatening . The management of acute sternoclavicular fracture-dislocation includes closed reduction or open surgical stabilization; however, limited success is reported with closed reduction . To our knowledge, there are no detailed descriptions of open reduction and suture fixation of acute sternoclavicular fracture-dislocation in children. Following diagnosis of acute sternoclavicular fracture-dislocation, the timing of surgical treatment is determined according to several patient and surgical factors. Among patients with hemodynamic instability, respiratory compromise, or evidence of asymmetric perfusion, surgical treatment is needed on an emergency basis. In the absence of these factors, surgical treatment can be performed on an urgent basis. It is important to communicate with vascular or thoracic surgeons prior to proceeding to the operating room because of the rare case in which advanced surgical access or vascular repair is required. In the operating room, general anesthesia and large-bore intravenous access are required. Patients are positioned supine on a radiolucent table, and a small bump is placed between the scapulae to elevate the medial aspect of the clavicle. The contralateral sternoclavicular joint and medial aspect of the clavicle should be prepared into the sterile field, as well as both sides of the groin in case vascular access is needed. A 6 to 8-cm incision is centered on the medial aspect of the clavicle, extending to the manubrium. Standard dissection to the clavicle is performed, and care is taken to maintain the integrity of the sternoclavicular ligament complex. Circumferential dissection of the medial clavicular metaphysis is usually required in order to mobilize the dislocated fragment. Reduction of the physeal fracture usually requires axial traction and extension of the ipsilateral shoulder with the aid of a reduction clamp on the medial clavicular metaphysis. In some cases, a Freer elevator can be placed between the metaphysis and epiphysis to shoehorn the clavicle from posterior to anterior. Once reduced, the fracture-dislocation is usually stable; however, the reduction is augmented with suture fixation. The sternoclavicular joint capsule should be repaired if disrupted, and the incision should be clo