Clavicular hook plate fixation for acromioclavicular joint injuries and lateral clavicle fractures: a case series of 13 military patients

Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries and lateral clavicle fractures are common among military personnel due to high-energy trauma sustained during training, sports, and operational activities. Reliable fixation is essential to restore function and enable early return to duty. We present a case series of 13 serving naval patients treated with clavicular hook plate (CHP) fixation between September 2012 and November 2018 at the Navy General Hospital, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Inclusion criteria were Rockwood Type III/IV ACJ injuries or lateral clavicle fractures. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score. The mean patient age was 32.8 years (range: 21-41). Mechanisms of injury included road traffic accidents (53%), accidental falls (31%), and sports injuries (15%). Diagnoses comprised Rockwood type III ACJ injuries (79%), lateral clavicle fractures (14%), and Rockwood type IV injuries (7%). The mean interval from injury to surgery was 14 weeks. At follow-up, 69% achieved excellent outcomes (DASH