Iatrogenic subclavian arteriovenous fistula: rare complication of plate osteosynthesis of clavicle fracture.

Iatrogenic subclavian arteriovenous fistula is rare and has not been reported as a complication of plate osteosynthesis of clavicle fracture. This article describes the first case of iatrogenic subclavian arteriovenous fistula caused by plate osteosynthesis. A 36-year-old man sustained a right middle clavicle fracture in an injury and underwent open reduction and internal fixation with clavicular compression plate 3 days later in a local hospital. On the second postoperative day, a pulsatile mass and thrill were detected at the right supraclavicular region. The patient was discharged 3 days postoperatively with no extra inspection. Three months later, he was admitted to our institution because the mass was getting bigger and weakness was felt in his right upper limb. Digital subtraction angiography confirmed a subclavian arteriovenous fistula. Vascular surgeons treated the patient successfully using endovascular techniques. The subclavian arteriovenous fistula was eliminated with a fully expanded stent graft, and the plate was removed simultaneously. The result was satisfactory, and the postoperative course was uneventful. This case demonstrated that subclavian arteriovenous fistula could be an iatrogenic complication of screw-and-plate osteosynthesis of clavicle fracture. The operative manipulation in the process of fracture reduction and hole drilling should be meticulous, and the screw length must be accurate. Orthopedic surgeons should be aware of this uncommon complication with plate osteosynthesis of clavicle fracture. We recommend using an endovascular surgical technique for treatment of this complication. Copyright 2012, SLACK Incorporated.