Hybrid Fixation Plate Treats Distal Clavicle Fractures

A unique plating system for distal clavicle fractures allows the fixation of ligaments to the coracoid while maintaining the mechanical strength of plate fixation.

The Suspension Distal Clavicle Fracture Fixation System is an internal fixation system consisting of various sized plates and screws fabricated from stainless steel. The system consists of three sizes of clavicle fracture plate for each shoulder (small, medium, and large; each with a left or right orientation); 8 lengths each of 2.7 mm nonlocking and locking bone screws; and 8 lengths each of 3.5 mm nonlocking and locking bone screws. The implantable components are included in a surgical tray that must be steam sterilized by the hospital or surgical center.


The system is based on patent-pending T-Loc Technology, which enables knotless, protected, and precisely controlled tension for secure fixation of multiple soft-tissue injuries. The Suspension Distal Clavicle Fracture Fixation System is a product of Suspension Orthopaedic Solutions (Arnold, MD, USA), and has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with a new plate designed to address repair of mid-shaft clavicle fractures.

“These two new FDA clearances will expand the availability of our confidence-inspiring solutions for orthopedic surgeons who treat difficult shoulder injuries, and reflect Suspension’s core mission of bringing meaningful innovation to challenging orthopedic injuries,” said Robert Collins, CEO of Suspension Orthopaedic Solutions.

Currently two methods are most frequently used to approach distal clavicle fractures. One method is to use a screw-retained fixation plate to secure the fracture. However, this can be very difficult to achieve since there is usually very little bone to secure the plate; as a result, a special hook plate must be used to achieve adequate fixation. Another method is to reconstruct the coracoclavicular ligaments connecting the coracoids--a part of the scapula--to the clavicle. By reconstructing these ligaments, the displaced clavicle is often brought into the appropriate position so the fracture can heal.

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