We attempted to evaluate the clinical results of modified tension band wiring (MTBW) with additional K-wire fixation and suture for distal clavicle fracture.

Fifty-nine patients with a distal clavicle fracture from May 2009 to December 2013 treated with MTBW were enrolled in this study. Their fracture types were type 2, 12; and type 3, 33; type 4, 8; and type 5, 6 according to Craig classification group II; average age was 47.2 years with a mean follow-up period of 27.9 months. The operations were performed within a mean of 3.1 days a fter t rauma. The c linical results were evaluated u sing University of California at Los Angeles scores (UCLA), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores (ASES) and Korean Shoulder Society scores (KSS) at 1 year after surgery.

Radiographic bone union was achieved at a mean of 3.7 months after the operation. In the last observation, their range of motion was forward flexion 159.0°, external rotation 59.8°, and internal rotation 4.3 points, and there were 2 cases of nonunion. Each average functional score was UCLA 31.3 points, KSS 91.6 points, and ASES 93.0 points.

For the surgical treatment of distal clavicle fractures, MTBW with additional K-wire fixation and suture is a useful technique allowing early range of motion exercises, minimizing soft tissue damage, and preserving the acromio-clavicular joint.