Cosmetic and Functional Dissatisfaction as Drivers of Elective Hardware Removal After Clavicle Fracture Fixation: A Narrative Review

Clavicle fractures are a common orthopedic issue requiring a comprehensive approach to management. When surgery is indicated, postoperative concerns and discussions based on psychosocial measures should take place to help patients obtain the best individualized outcomes. Traditional indications for hardware removal include infection, mechanical failure, or significant pain, but patients can elect to undergo removal for non-clinical purposes such as hardware visibility, clothing interference, or activity limitations. These patient-centered indications for removal are currently underreported in large studies and might not be discussed in preoperative and postoperative surgical counseling. This narrative review will synthesize current literature on cosmetic and functional dissatisfaction as drivers of elective hardware removal following clavicle fracture fixation. This review will also evaluate subjective outcomes following implant removal in patients without clinical complications.