Dr. Steven Chudik, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Teaching and Research Foundation research on clavicle plate fixation comparison published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine

Is there a better way for orthopaedic surgeons to surgically repair clavicle fractures? Research conducted by Dr. Steven Chudik, and his foundation, the Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Teaching and Research Foundation (OTRF) presented their findings on the subject at the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine annual meeting earlier this year and they were published in the September 2017 issue of the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine.

The OTRF research proved that a surgical technique developed by Dr. Chudik is equivalent and possibly better than the current surgical standard of care for a displaced midshaft clavicle fracture. Dr. Chudik’s technique requires a shorter incision, less dissection, surgical time and difficulty.

“The findings are noteworthy,” said Dr. Chudik. “My technique demonstrated no significant differences biomechanically when compared with the standard fixation techniques. There also were no significant differences clinically in outcomes or complications in patients receiving either treatment,” he added.

Dr. Chudik admitted it may take some time for orthopaedic surgeons to change from the current procedure. However, the long-term benefits of lower cost, decreased incision size, surgical time and morbidity for the patient with no adverse risks or outcome differences should provide surgeons enough reasons to make his technique the new standard of care sooner rather than later.

For over 15 years, Dr. Steven Chudik treats patients at his Shoulder, Knee and Sports Medicine clinic in Westmont and Western Springs, Illinois. To schedule an appointment, call 630-324-0402, or schedule online.