Abstract
Objective
This study evaluates a proximally angulated cortical screw forming a triangular construct in lateral locking plates of comminuted intraarticular tibial plateau fractures.
Methods
Sixteen composite tibiae were used for the fracture model and a complete articular fracture of the proximal tibia (AO 41.C2) was performed. A compression force was applied to the medial tibial plateau with an alternating, stepwise loading: 250 N–10 N–300 N–10 N–350 N–10 N–400 N. The relative motion between the different fragments of each sample was measured using a contactless, 3-dimensional digital image correlation system.
Results
Between the medial and lateral condyle, elastic as well as plastic shear was significantly lower using the triangular support screw (p < 0.05). In the metaphyseal region, elastic deformation remained identical, independent of the screw positioning. However, plastic deformation (varus collapse) was significantly reduced by 30–40% using a triangular support screw at higher compression forces (>300 N; p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Based on the results of this study, the use of a triangular support screw in metaphyseal comminuted tibial plateau fractures might enhance fracture stability. However, further studies are necessary to prove these biomechanical results in composite bone.
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Implants used in this study were donated by Zimmer, Inc., Switzerland.
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Baumann, P., Ebneter, L., Giesinger, K. et al. A triangular support screw improves stability for lateral locking plates in proximal tibial fractures with metaphyseal comminution: a biomechanical analysis. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 131, 815–821 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-010-1243-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-010-1243-8