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Comparative biomechanical analysis of three implants used in bicondylar tibial fractures

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Summary

Background

Currently, the most difficult-to-treat tibial plateau fractures are complex, comminuted fractures, which result from high-energy trauma. The anatomical reconstruction of the articular surface and the preservation of the soft tissue envelope are required for a good functional result. The aim of this study is to perform a biomechanical evaluation of three constructs used in the treatment of bicondylar fractures: the L‑shaped plate, the LCP locking plate, and the hybrid external fixator.

Methods

We used 30 experimental models divided into three study groups. There were ten models for each type of implant.

Results

The best biomechanical behavior was found with the LCP locking plate, which showed minimal deformation upon cyclic loading, followed by the hybrid external fixator.

Conclusions

The LCP plate is the optimal implant for the stabilization of Schatzker type V tibial plateau fractures, with low rates of degradation for the implant and the bone–implant assembly.

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Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Prof Mirela Toth-Tascau from University Politehnica of Timisoara, Department of Mechanics and Material Strength—were the biomechanical testings and measurements were performed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. 2nd Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Timisoara, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Bd. Bulbuca Iosif, No. 10, 300736, Timișoara, Romania

    Cosmin Ioan Faur

  2. Targu Jiu County Hospital, Progresului Street, No. 18, Targu Jiu, Gorj, Romania

    Bogdan Niculescu

Authors
  1. Cosmin Ioan Faur
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  2. Bogdan Niculescu
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Correspondence to Cosmin Ioan Faur.

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C. Faur and B. Niculescu declare that they have no competing interests.

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Faur, C.I., Niculescu, B. Comparative biomechanical analysis of three implants used in bicondylar tibial fractures. Wien Med Wochenschr 168, 254–260 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-017-0551-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-017-0551-9

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