Reliability of measurements of the fractured clavicle: a systematic review

Abstract

BackgroundThe objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of measurements of shortening in midshaft clavicle fractures (MSCF) using any available imaging technique.MethodsElectronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane) were searched. The 4-point-scale COSMIN checklist was used to evaluate the methodological quality of studies.ResultsFour studies on reliability of measurement of MSCF were identified. These studies were of fair and poor quality. The reported intrarater reliability varied between none to fair, and intrarater reliability was minimal.ConclusionNo definite conclusions could be drawn. In order to optimize future studies and the realization of comparable results, more research is necessary to identify a standardized method of imaging and measuring.Level of Evidence III.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1186/s13643-017-0614-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

An Institutional Standardised Protocol for the Treatment of Acute Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fractures (ADMCFs): Conservative or Surgical Management for Active Patients?

“…Since both IS and RS play an increasingly important role in deciding on surgical intervention of ADMCFs, it is important to have a reliable and accurate method of measuring them [ 48 ]. However, the results of a recent systematic review demonstrate that the literature on this topic yielded only fair- and poor-quality studies.…”

“…Supine positioning of the patient may underestimate the actual shortening and displacement, which in turn can negatively influence the decision to carry out surgical reduction and fixation of the ADMCFs. Standard X-rays of the injured clavicle are sufficient to evaluate fracture pattern, without needing contralateral clavicle views or making use of more refined, but expensive, radiological exams, such as CT scans, as proposed by other authors [ 48 , 49 ].…”

Conservative Treatment of Medial Shaft Clavicle Fracture with Borderline Criteria: A Case Report

“…The suspected diagnosis of a clavicle fracture is made clinically and confirmed with conventional X-ray in two direction [11]. X-rays are preferably performed using craniocaudal and caudocranial views, as descrived by Hoogervorst, et al, [12]. CT scanning may be required because routine clavicle X-rays may miss fractures due to overlap of surrounding structures, particulary at either end of the bone.…”