Congenital pseudoarthrosis of the clavicle
Autori:
Anko Antabak, Filip Jurić, Tomislav Vlahek, Dino Papeš, Nado Bukvić
Sažetak
Summary
Congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle is an extremely rare anomaly characterized by the failure of fusion between the medial and lateral ossification centers. First described in 1910, only about 300 cases have been documented since. The incidence of this anomaly is approximately 1 in 150,000, with diagnosis mostly occurring in adolescence. In early childhood, it is often overlooked as clavicular thickening may be misinterpreted as a post-traumatic callus. The clavicle is the first bone to ossify in utero, with developed ossification centers (medial and lateral) by the middle of the fourth week of gestation, which fuse by the end of the seventh week. Most of the clavicle develops from the medial part (around 80%). The initial radiographic signs of ossification at the medial end become visible between the ages of 13 and 14. The precise etiology of this malformation remains unclear. One theory links it to increased pressure from the subclavian artery, while others associate it with fetal intrauterine positioning or a possible hereditary disorder. The treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle is controversial. Most documented cases have been treated conservatively, especially if asymptomatic. Surgical intervention is reserved for those with functional limitations, esthetic concerns, or progressive pain. Surgery is also recommended in children with a gap between fragments exceeding 1 cm. Various stabilization techniques have been proposed, including intramedullary Kirschner wire, plates and screws, Steinmann pins, and external fixation. Bone grafting is often required, especially in older children, with the iliac crest being the most common donor site. The optimal age for surgical treatment is between three and six years, as complication rates are lower. Clavicle fractures and congenital pseudarthrosis are challenging to distinguish in young children, especially during initial examination. Although congenital pseudarthrosis is rare, it should be considered as untreated cases in preschool years may result in poorer outcomes later. The authors of this paper provide a review of current knowledge on
congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle and discuss therapeutic approaches.
