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.

From march 1980 to August 1983, fourteen patients with fractures of the clavicle were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with threaded steinman pin at department of orthopadic surgery of Ehwa university hospital. The results were as followings; 1) Average duration of union of the fractures was 8.9 weeks. 2) Non-union was occured in one case, which was united by autogenous bone graft. 3) By open reduction and internal fixation, abnormal external appearance, such as bony protrusion and shortening was not noted and with early motion of the shoulder joint, disturbance of the joint function was minimized. 4) Open reduction and internal fixation in fractures of the clavicle was recommended in severe comminuted fracture, clinical non-union and heavy worker.