Clinical studies have indicated that the non-operative treatment is the best method for clavicle fracture and the operative treatment may contribute to the development of non-union. But some clavicle fractures may be difficult to treat only by non-operative method.

From March, 1980 to May, 1989, 42 patients with clavicle fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with threaded steinmann pin and plate & screws at Department of Orthopaedic Surgery of Ewha Womans University Hospital.

The results were as follows;

1) The avarage duration of union of fracture was 6.7 weeks.

2) By open reduction & internal fixation, gross deformity such as large bone hypertrophy, joint stiffness and shortening was minimized.

3) The plate & screws fixation is more satisfactory result than threaded steinmann pin fixation.