[Minimal invasive biological osteosynthesis of the clavicle with a titanium nail].

Until December 2001 84 midclavicular fractures in 80 patients were treated with intramedullary nailing. Postoperatively there was a significant decrease of pain and a significant increase of mobility compared to the situation preoperatively. 6 months after hardware removal the mean Constant-Score was 97.4 points. There was one none union. In one patient there was a loss of reduction with shortening of 1.5 cm. In 5 patients a shortening of the proximal end of the nail had to be performed, due to painful skin irritation. Intramedullary nailing of midclavicular fractures is a safe and minimally invasive operation technique. It should be offered to the patient as an alternative to conservative treatment.