BACKGROUND:Femoral neck fractures represent a significant health challenge among elderly. Specialized geriatric trauma centers (ATZ) and endoprosthesis centers (EPZ) have been established to optimize outcomes through interdisciplinary care. This study investigates the impact of combining expertise of ATZ and EPZ on clinical outcomes of elderly patients with femoral neck fractures. METHODS:This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from 25,443 patients aged > 70 years with femoral neck fractures, who were surgically treated in certified ATZ in Germany between 2016 and 2022. Data was obtained from the Registry for Geriatric Trauma (ATR-DGU). Patients were categorized based on treatment at either certified ATZ alone or at combined ATZ with integrated EPZ. Multivariate analyses adjusted for age, gender, ASA score, pre-fracture walking ability, and anticoagulant use were conducted using linear and logistic regression models to assess postoperative outcomes. RESULTS:Patients treated in dual certified centers had a higher rate of total hip arthroplasty (19.21 vs. 14.18%, p < 0.001) and received tranexamic acid more frequently (6.20 vs. 1.56%, p < 0.001). Head-retaining procedures played only a minor role in both centers (8.33% vs. 8.61%, p = 0.452). Despite higher prevalences of severe systemic disease (ASA score > 3), treatment in dual certified centers demonstrated improved early mobilization under full weight-bearing (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.23-1.6, p < 0.001) and better mobility at 120 days (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.03-1.33, p = 0.018). CONCLUSION:Treatment in dual certified centers (EPZ/ATZ) is associated with improved postoperative mobility and quality of life in elderly patients with femoral neck fractures. The higher rate of total hip arthroplasty and the combination of geriatric and arthroplasty expertise contribute to these better outcomes.

PurposeIf surgery is indicated for elderly patients suffering a proximal humerus fracture, reverse fracture arthroplasty became the preferred type of treatment due to its good and reliable outcomes over the last decade. Surgeons could choose from a wide range of implants and up to now there was no evaluation, if a change of the manufacturer affects patients` outcome.MethodsThe last 100 patients before and the first 100 after manufacturer change in reverse fracture arthroplasty were evaluated at a level one trauma center, all treated by only 3 senior shoulder surgeons. Clinical as well as radiographic outcome parameters were assessed, perioperative up to 24 months after surgery.ResultsMean age in both groups was nearly 80 years with comparable distribution of gender and comorbidities. A trend to shorter duration of surgery was observed after the change, mainly according to an uncemented fixation of the stem. During follow-up no significant differences, beneficial as well as negative, could be observed regarding clinical and radiographic outcome.ConclusionA manufacturer change on the fly is possible without negative consequences for patients` outcome. Expertise of the whole OR-team as well as standardized training with the new implant seems to be a more important factor than a specific type of implant.

BACKGROUND:Subsequent contralateral hip fractures pose a significant challenge in the management of geriatric patients. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of contralateral hip fractures within the past six months in patients with hip fractures. METHODS:A registry-based cohort study with prospective follow-up was conducted using data from hip fracture patients (femoral neck and pertrochanteric fractures) in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Patients with a contralateral hip fracture in the past six months (risk group) were compared to those without (control group). Matching analysis was performed to adjust for confounding factors, including age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, pre-fracture mobility, and fracture type. The primary outcome was mobility seven days postoperatively, while secondary outcomes included the EQ-5D-5 L index, length of hospital stay, necessity for intensive care unit, reoperation rate, discharge destination, mortality, and complications. RESULTS:Before matching, patients in the risk group exhibited significantly worse mobility and functional outcomes than those in the control group. However, after adjusting for confounders, no significant differences in mobility or the EQ-5D-5 L index remained. No significant difference was found in the in-house and mid-term mortality rate. The risk group was prone to having a higher risk of delirium and decubitus ulcers without statistical significance. In contrast, the risk of renal failure was significantly lower. CONCLUSION:Contralateral hip fractures in the past six months are associated with inferior early mobility and functional outcomes in general. However, this association was not independent.

Background Fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) in elderly patients are an increasing concern due to their association with osteoporosis and the aging population. These fractures significantly affect patients’ mobility and quality of life. This study evaluates different surgical techniques in patients suffering from FFP to provide standardized recommendations for treatment strategies. In addition, we compared therapeutic concepts and their outcome between two major trauma centers in Germany. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 882 patients aged over 65 years who suffered from FFP between 2003 and 2020 at a level I and level III trauma center in a german metropolis. Fractures were classified according to Rommens and Hofmann. Data collection included patient demographics, fracture type, treatment strategy, and length of hospital stay. Results FFP I fractures were predominantly treated conservatively at both centers. Significant variability was noted in the treatment of type II and III fractures, with level III trauma center having a higher surgical intervention rate for FFP II in 27.6% compared to the level I trauma center in 9.9% of the cases. The most common procedure at both hospitals was the stabilization of the posterior pelvic ring. Patients who underwent less invasive posterior-only stabilization had shorter length of hospital stay than those who received combined anterior and posterior stabilization. Conclusions The study reveals substantial differences in the treatment approaches for FFP between two major trauma centers. Less invasive surgical methods, particularly posterior-only stabilization, are associated with shorter hospital stays and potentially better outcomes for elderly patients with unstable FFP. Clinical Relevance This study underscores the importance of minimally invasive surgical techniques in managing FFP in elderly patients, highlighting their potential to reduce the length of hospital stay and improve recovery.

Background: This institutional, register-based analysis aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using CT-based sacral Hounsfield units (HUs) for assessing bone density in pelvic fragility fractures and to explore their potential correlation with DEXA measurements and osteological laboratory diagnostics. Methods: Patients aged > 80 years, admitted between 2003 and 2019 with pelvic ring fractures, were analyzed in this retrospective single-center study. CT scans were evaluated according to the classification of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFPs), which guided treatment decisions (conservative or surgical). The diagnosis of a fragility fracture was based on both fracture morphology and patient history, including the presence of low-energy trauma. Bone health was assessed using standardized laboratory diagnostics including serum calcium, phosphate, alkaline phosphatase, and 25(OH)-vitamin D, in addition to DEXA scans and CT-derived Hounsfield units. Vitamin D levels and bone density evaluations were analyzed to identify possible correlations among these factors and with fracture patterns. Results: A total of 456 patients (mean age 87.3 years, 79.6% female) were included. The CT-based FFP classification identified Type II as the most common fracture type (66.7%). Conservative treatment was the predominant approach (84.9%). Serum 25(OH)-vitamin D deficiency was observed in 62.7% of the patients, while osteopenia and osteoporosis were found in 34.3% and 46.5% of cases, respectively. HU values at S1 showed significant correlation with femoral neck T-scores, highlighting the utility of CT scans for bone density assessment. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the complementary roles of CT-derived HU values and DEXA T-scores in evaluating bone quality and fracture severity in geriatric patients with FFP. While DEXA remains the gold standard, CT imaging offers valuable early insights, supporting the timely initiation of osteoporosis therapy. Given the high prevalence of fragility fractures in this age group, early CT-based screening may facilitate earlier initiation of osteoporosis-specific therapy, including anabolic agents where indicated. Further research is needed to explore the relationships between vitamin D levels, bone density assessments, and fracture types.

Titanium as the leading implant material in locked plating is challenged by polymers such as carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK), which became the focus of interest of researchers and manufacturers in recent years. However, data on human tissue response to these new implant materials are rare. Osteosynthesis plates and peri‑implant soft tissue samples of 16 healed proximal humerus fractures were examined (n = 8 CFR-PEEK, n = 8 titanium). Soft tissue was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and µCT. The entrapped foreign bodies were further examined for their material composition by FTIR. To gain insight into their origin and formation mechanism, explanted and new plates were evaluated by SEM, EDX, profilometry and HR-CT. In the peri‑implant soft tissue of the CFR-PEEK plates, an inflammatory tissue reaction was detected. Tissues contained foreign bodies, which could be identified as tantalum wires, carbon fiber fragments and PEEK particles. Titanium particles were also found in the peri‑implant soft tissue of the titanium plates but showed a less intense surrounding tissue inflammation in immunohistochemistry. The surface of explanted CFR-PEEK plates was rougher and showed exposed and broken carbon fibers as well as protruding and deformed tantalum wires, especially in used screw holes, whereas scratches were identified on the titanium plate surfaces. Particles were present in the peri‑implant soft tissue neighboring both implant materials and could be clearly assigned to the plate material. Particles from both plate materials caused detectable tissue inflammation, with more inflammatory cells found in soft tissue over CFR-PEEK plates than over titanium plates. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Osteosynthesis plates are ubiquitously used in various medical specialties for the reconstruction of bone fractures and defects and are therefore indispensable for trauma surgeons, ENT specialists and many others. The leading implant material are metals such as titanium, but recently implants made of polymers such as carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK) have become increasingly popular. However, little is known about human tissue reaction and particle generation related to these new implant types. To clarify this question, 16 osteosynthesis plates (n = 8 titanium and n = 8 CFR-PEEK) and the overlying soft tissue were analyzed regarding particle occurrence and tissue inflammation. Tissue inflammation is clinically relevant for the development of scar tissue, which is discussed to cause movement restrictions and thus contributes significantly to patient outcome.

Mediale Klavikulafrakturen und Verletzungen des Sternoklavikulargelenks sind selten, können jedoch lebensbedrohliche Folgen haben. Standardisierte Behandlungsalgorithmen oder Leitlinien zu Diagnostik und Therapie existieren nicht. Dieser Beitrag gibt einen Überblick zu den einzelnen Topografien und ihrer sowohl operativen als auch konservativen Versorgung. Mediale Klavikulafrakturen werden überwiegend konservativ behandelt. Die Indikationsstellung zur operativen Versorgung variiert, erfolgt jedoch häufig bei Frakturdislokationen > 1 cm bzw. einer Schaftbreite und hohem funktionellen Anspruch. Absolute Versorgungsindikationen stellen begleitende Verletzungen neurovaskulärer Strukturen, offene Fraktur oder eine drohende Perforation der Haut dar. Bevorzugt wird mittlerweile die offene Reposition und interne Fixierung mithilfe der (winkelstabilen) Plattenosteosynthese. Bei posterioren Luxationen im Sternoklavikulargelenk muss eine geschlossene Reposition unter Analgosedierung/in Versorgungsbereitschaft unmittelbar versucht werden. Diese zeitliche Dringlichkeit besteht nicht bei anterioren oder superioren Luxationen. Eine operative Therapie ist bei frustraner Reposition, anhaltender symptomatischer Instabilität oder bei Verletzungen des neurovaskulären Bündels indiziert. Aus mannigfaltigen Versorgungsoptionen hat sich die Arthrodese mit Faden-Cerclagen bewährt. Aufgrund besserer biologischer Eigenschaften werden zunehmend Sehnentransplantate verwendet. Bei Kombinationsverletzungen wird das operative Verfahren durch die einzelnen Verletzungsmuster festgelegt. Trotz der Vielseitigkeit der therapeutischen Strategien wird das langfristige Outcome durchweg positiv beschrieben.

Medial clavicle fractures and injuries to the sternoclavicular joint are rare injuries but can have life-threatening consequences. There are no standardized treatment algorithms or guidelines for the diagnostics and treatment. This article provides an overview of the individual topographies as well as the conservative and surgical treatment strategies.Conservative treatment is preferred for medial clavicle fractures. The indications for surgical treatment are variable but this is frequently carried out if there is a fracture displacement > 1 cm or 1 shaft width and high functional demands. In the case of accompanying injuries to neurovascular structures, an open fracture or the threat of perforation of the skin, surgical treatment is mandatory. Open reduction and internal fixation using (locking) plates is currently the preferred form of treatment.In the case of posterior dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint, an immediate closed reduction must be attempted with the patient under analgosedation and with emergency treatment on standby. This temporal urgency does not exist for anterior and superior dislocations. Surgical treatment is indicated in cases of unsuccessful reduction, persistent symptomatic instability or injuries of the neurovascular bundle. From a multitude of treatment options, arthrodesis with suture cerclage has shown good results. Tendon grafts as well as special hook plates are increasingly being used due to better biomechanical qualities. The surgical treatment of combined injuries is determined by the individual injury pattern.Despite the variety of treatment strategies, the long-term outcome has consistently been positively described.

Proximal humerus fractures are among the most common indicator fractures of osteoporosis and occur in older patients primarily after low-energy trauma. In addition to a careful clinical examination, diagnostic imaging (radiography/computed tomography) is essential for further treatment planning. However, in an older patient, this cannot be done solely on the basis of clinical and imaging findings; numerous contextual factors (functional demands, concomitant diseases) must be taken into account. The major part of proximal humerus fractures, especially in geriatric patients, is treated conservatively. In surgical treatment increased rates of joint replacement can be observed as part of the establishment of geriatric trauma care concepts. The primary goal is to restore the patient's independence and abilities for daily living as soon as possible. Surgical treatment is therefore considered more frequently even in the case of existing comorbidities and, as evidence increases, is carried out using reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Regardless of the chosen treatment path, secondary fracture preventions with osteological diagnostics and specific therapy is crucial.

Background: Early postoperative mobilization is essential for orthogeriatric patients. The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is widely used to evaluate nutritional status. This study sought to investigate the predictive value of PNI for early postoperative mobility in patients with pertrochanteric femur fractures. Materials and methods: This study included 156 geriatric patients with pertrochanteric femur fractures treated with TFN-Advance™ (DePuy Synthes, Raynham, MA, USA). Mobility was evaluated on the third postoperative day and by discharge. Stepwise logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association significance of PNI with postoperative mobility together with comorbidities. The optimal PNI cut-off value for mobility was analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: Three days postoperatively, PNI was an independent predictor of mobility (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.07–1.23, p < 0.01). By discharge, it was found that PNI (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.08–1.30, p < 0.01) and dementia (OR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.07–0.40, p < 0.001) were significant predictors. PNI correlated weakly with age (r = −0.27, p < 0.001). The PNI cut-off value for mobility on the third postoperative day was 38.1 (specificity = 78.5%, sensitivity = 63.6%). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that PNI is an independent predictor of early postoperative mobility in geriatric patients with pertrochanteric femur fractures treated with TFNA™.

BACKGROUND:Gluteal muscle fatty atrophy (gMFA) might impair pelvic stability and negatively influence remobilization in patients with fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP). This study aimed to investigate the association between gMFA and surgical indication in patients with FFP.METHODS AND MATERIALS:A retrospective analysis of 429 patients (age ≥80) diagnosed with FFP was performed. gMFA of the gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus was evaluated using a standard scoring system based on computer tomography images.RESULTS:No significant difference was found in gMFA between genders or among FFP types. The severity of gMFA did not correlate with age. The severity of gMFA in the gluteus medius was significantly greater than in the gluteus maximus, whereas the most profound gMFA was found in the gluteus minimus. gMFA was significantly more severe in patients who underwent an operation than in conservatively treated patients with type-III FFP, and an independent correlation to surgical indication was found using logistic regression.CONCLUSION:Our findings imply that gMFA is an independent factor for surgical treatment in patients with type-III FFP. Besides focusing on the fracture pattern, the further evaluation of gMFA could be a feasible parameter for decision making toward either conservative or surgical treatment of type-III FFP.

Proximal femur fractures predominantly affect older patients and can mark a drastic turning point in their lives. To avoid complications and reduce mortality, expert associations recommend surgical treatment within 24–48 h after admission. Due to the high incidence, treatment is provided at a wide range of hospitals with different size and level of care, which may affect time to surgery. Data from 19,712 patients included from 2016 to 2019 in the Registry for Geriatric Trauma (ATR-DGU) were analyzed in terms of time to surgery, in-house mortality, mobilization on the first postoperative day, ambulation status on the 7th day after surgery, and initiation of osteoporosis therapy. Participating hospitals were grouped according to their classification as level I, II or III trauma centers. Also presence of additional injuries, intake and type of anticoagulants were considered. Linear and logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of hospitals level of care on each item. 28.6

Tibial shaft spiral fractures and fractures of the distal third of the tibia (AO:42A/B/C and 43A) frequently occur with non-displaced posterior malleolus fractures (PM). This study investigated the hypothesis that plain X-ray is not sufficient for a reliable diagnosis of associated non-displaced PM fractures in tibial shaft spiral fractures. 50 X-rays showing 42A/B/C and 43A fractures were evaluated by two groups of physicians, each group was comprised of a resident and a fellowship-trained traumatologist or radiologist. Each group was tasked to make a diagnosis and/or suggest if further imaging was needed. One group was primed with the incidence of PM fractures and asked to explicitly assess the PM. Overall, 9.13/25 (SD ± 5.77) PM fractures were diagnosed on X-ray. If the posterior malleolus fracture was named or a CT was requested, the fracture was considered “detected”. With this in mind, 14.8 ± 5.95 posterior malleolus fractures were detected. Significantly more fractures were diagnosed/detected (14 vs. 4.25/25; p < 0.001/14.8 vs. 10.5/25; p < 0.001) in the group with awareness. However, there were significantly more false positives in the awareness group (2.5 vs. 0.5; p = 0.024). Senior physicians recognized slightly more fractures than residents (residents: 13.0 ± 7.79; senior physicians: 16.5 ± 3.70; p = 0.040). No significant differences were demonstrated between radiologists and trauma surgeons. The inner-rater reliability was high with 91.2

Background Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of humeral head split fractures is challenging because of high instability and limited visibility. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the extend of the approach through the rotator interval (RI) on the reduction quality and functional outcome. Methods 37 patients (mean age: 59  ±  16 years,16 female) treated by ORIF through a standard deltopectoral (DP) approach were evaluated. The follow-up period was at least two years. In 17 cases, the approach was extended through the RI. Evaluation was based on radiographs, Constant scores (CS) and DASH scores. Results In group DP, “anatomic” reduction was achieved in 9 cases (45%), “acceptable” in 5 cases (25%), and “malreduced” in 6 cases (30%). In group RI, “anatomic” reduction was seen in 12 cases (71%), “acceptable” in 5 cases (29%), and “malreduced” in none (p  =  0.04). In the DP group, the CS was 60.2  ±  16.2 and the %CS was 63.9  ±  22.3, while in the RI group, the CS was 74.5  ±  17.4 and the %CS was 79.1  ±  24.1 (p  =  0.07, p  =  0.08). DASH score was 22.8  ±  19.5 in DP compared to RI: 25.2  ±  20.6 (p  =  0.53). Conclusions The RI approach improves visualization as it enhances quality of fracture reduction, however functional outcomes may not differ significantly. Type of study and level of proof Retrospective, level III

In the treatment of proximal humeral fractures (PHF), patients are often recommended to wear a sling or orthosis and to perform physiotherapy. However, some patients, especially elderly ones, struggle to comply with these rehabilitation regimens. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate whether these incompliant patients have a worse functional outcome than those who adhere to the rehabilitation protocol. After receiving a diagnosis of a PHF, patients were divided into four groups according to fracture morphology: conservative with sling, operative with sling, conservative with abduction orthosis, and operative with abduction orthosis. At the 6-week follow-up, compliance regarding brace use and physiotherapy performance were assessed, as well as the constant score (CS) and complications or revision surgeries. The CS as well as the complications and revision surgeries were also surveyed after one year. In 149 participants, with a mean age of 73.9 ± 7.2 years, only 37% terminated orthosis and only 49% underwent physiotherapy as recommended. The statistical analysis showed no significant difference in the CS, complications, and revision surgeries between the groups.

Einleitung Der optimale Versorgungszeitpunkt dislozierter proximaler Humerusfrakturen, ist weitgehend unklar. Bei der Tibiakopffraktur konnte eine Korrelation für die Entwicklung einer Pseudarthrose hinsichtlich immunologischer Marker im Frakturhämatom und im peripheren Blut identifiziert werden. Ziel dieser Arbeit war es, die immunologische Reaktion in Abhängigkeit des Zeitpunkts nach proximaler Humerusfraktur zu erfassen und gegebenenfalls einen Zeitraum zu definieren an dem aus immunologischer Sicht die besten Voraussetzungen für eine Frakturheilung gegeben sind.

Abstract Background Posttraumatic shoulder stiffness remains a problem after proximal humerus fracture (PHF) despite good healing rates. The aim of this pilot study was to determine whether the implant material and overlying soft tissue have an effect on shoulder range of motion (ROM) before and after implant removal (IR). Methods 16 patients (mean age 55.2 ± 15.3 (SD) years; 62.5% female) were included who underwent operative treatment with locking plates of either carbon fiber reinforced Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) (PEEKPower® humeral fracture plate, Arthrex, Naples, Florida, USA, n = 8) or titanium alloy (Ti) (Philos®, DePuy Synthes, Johnson & Johnson Medical, Raynham, Massachusetts, USA, n = 8) for PHF. All patients presented with a limited ROM and persistent pain in everyday life after the fracture had healed, whereupon IR was indicated. ROM before and after IR were compared as well as the Constant Score (CS) and the CS compared to the contralateral shoulder (%CS) 1 year after IR. Results In group PEEK, elevation was 116.3° ± 19.2° pre- and 129.4° ± 23.7° post-IR (p = 0.027). External rotation was 35.0° ± 7.6° pre- and 50.6° ± 21.8° post-IR (p = 0.041). External rotation with the humerus abducted 90° was 38.8° ± 18.1° pre- and 52.5° ± 25.5° post-IR (p = 0.024). In group Ti, elevation was 110.0° ± 34.6° pre- and 133.8° ± 31.1° post-IR (p = 0.011). External rotation with the humerus at rest was 33.8° ± 23.1° pre- and 48.8° ± 18.7° post-IR (p = 0.048). External rotation with the humerus abducted 90° was 40.0° ± 31.6° pre- and 52.5° ± 22.5° post-IR (p = 0.011). Comparison of the two implant materials showed no significant difference. The overall CS was 90.3 ± 8.8, the %CS was 91.8% ± 14.7%. Conclusion There was no significant difference in ROM, CS and %CS with respect to plate materials, although lower cell adhesion is reported for the hydrophobic PEEK. However, all patients showed improved functional outcomes after IR in this pilot study. In patients with shoulder stiffness following locked plating for PHF, implants should be removed and open arthrolysis should be performed, independently from the hardware material. Level of evidence II

Purpose This study aimed to investigate whether gait patterns of patients with fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) comply with the grade of fracture instability, defined by radiological patterns. Patients and methods This prospective, single-center, observational study included 39 patients with an FFP. Gait analysis was performed with a wearable insole force sensor (Loadsol® by Novel, Munich, Germany) 4–7 days after admission. Patients were divided in two groups: Group A included FFP type 1 fractures, which affect the anterior pelvic ring only, Group B contained FFP type 2–4 fractures with an involvement of the posterior pelvic ring. Primary outcome parameter was the FTI ratio (force–time integral (N*s)). Results The mean age was 85.08 years (SD ± 6.45), 94.9% (37/39) of the patients were female. The most common fracture type was an FFP 2b (64.1%, 25/39). Group A showed a significantly higher FTI ratio (45.12%, SD ± 4.19%) than Group B (38.45%, SD ± 5.97%, p = 0.002). Further, a significant correlation of the FTI ratio and the average ( r = 0.570, p < 0.001) and maximum ( r = 0.394, p = 0.013) peak force was observed. Conclusion The gait pattern of patients with an FFP type 2–4 was more imbalanced than of patients with an FFP type 1 fracture. These findings match with the radiological classification of FFP, which indicates higher instability, when the posterior pelvis is affected. Gait analysis might offer earlier functional diagnostics and may accelerate the treatment decision with shorter periods of immobility in future. Especially in cross-border cases, early gait analysis could be beneficial to clarify the indication for or against surgery.

Background: Fracture classifications of the distal clavicle are based on ligamentous integrity. The influence of osseous microarchitecture on fracture occurrence, morphology, and the lesion’s stability has not yet been investigated. We aimed to characterize osseous microarchitecture according to common fracture classification systems based on ligamentous integrity and investigated the possible effects of age, gender, and osteoporosis in distal clavicle fractures. Methods: N = 20 human cadaveric distal clavicles were scanned using XtremeCT with an isometric voxel size of 82 μm. In the sagittal plane, each data set was evaluated in 11 sections of approximately 7 mm thickness. Three topographic regions were defined: the bone lateral to the trapezoid (LTR), intertubercular (ITR), and medial to the conoid (MCR) ligament. Cortical bone mineral density (BMD) [mgHA/cm3] and cortical porosity (1- (BV/TV) [%]) were determined and evaluated relative to age and gender. Results: Along the mediolateral axis, there was an >20-fold increase in median cortical porosity (P ≤ .001). There were significant differences in cortical porosity between LTR and ITR (P ≤ .001) but not between ITR and MCR (P = .09). In ITR, cortical porosity was significantly greater in >60-year-old compared to younger donors (P = .01). For BMD, there was an >2-fold decrease toward the distal apex (P ≤ .001). BMD was significantly greater in ITR compared to LTR (P ≤ .001) and in MCR compared to ITR (P = .02). In ITR and MCR, clavicles of >60-year-old donors had significantly lower BMD values compared to younger donors (P < .01). Across all 3 regions, frequency distribution of low bone mass did not significantly differ between <60-year-olds and >60-year-olds (P > .6). Conclusion: The distal clavicle features a characteristic bony microarchitecture. The present study revealed a significant difference in bone quality of lateral, intertubercular, and medial zones of the distal clavicle and could specify target areas and strategies for surgical treatment of unstable fractures. Age, gender, and osteoporosis have a limited effect on bone quality and fracture genesis. In contrast, ligamentous quality is supposed to exert a substantial influence on fracture characteristics, especially in ITR. Fracture morphology of the distal clavicle is determined by a bony-ligamentous conjunction, which remains to be characterized.