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BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

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Open Access 01-12-2024 | Research

Determination of the ideal plate for medial femoral condyle fracture fixation: an anatomical fit and biomechanical study

Authors: Felix Leung, Christian Xinshuo Fang, Colin Shing Yat Yung, Frankie Ka Li Leung

Published in: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders | Issue 1/2024

Abstract

Background

The aim of this study is to determine the best plate to use as a substitute to fix a medial femoral condyle fracture.

Materials and methods

The first part is to measure the best fit between several anatomical plates including the Proximal Tibia Anterolateral Plate (PT AL LCP), the Proximal Tibia Medial Plate (PT M LCP), the Distal Tibia Medial Locking Plate (DT M LCP) and the Proximal Humerus (PHILOS) plate against 28 freshly embalmed cadaveric distal femurs. Measurements such as plate offset and number of screws in the condyle and shaft shall be obtained. The subsequent part is to determine the compressive force at which the plate fails. After creating an iatrogenic medial condyle fracture, the cadavers will be fixed with the two plates with the best anatomical fit and subjected to a compression force using a hydraulic press.

Results

The PT AL LCP offered the best anatomical fit whereas the PHILOS plate offered the maximal number of screws inserted. The force required to create 2 mm of fracture displacement between the two is not statistically significant (LCP 889 N, PHILOS 947 N, p = 0.39). The PT AL LCP can withstand a larger fracture displacement than the PHILOS (LCP 24.4 mm, PHILOS 17.4 mm, p = 0.004).

Discussion and conclusion

Both the PT AL LCP and the PHILOS remain good options in fixing a medial femoral condyle fracture. Between the two, we would recommend the PT AL LCP as the slightly superior option.

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Title: Determination of the ideal plate for medial femoral condyle fracture fixation: an anatomical fit and biomechanical study
Authors: Felix Leung
Christian Xinshuo Fang
Colin Shing Yat Yung
Frankie Ka Li Leung
Publication date: 01-12-2024
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2474
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-024-07374-5

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Determination of the ideal plate for medial femoral condyle fracture fixation: an anatomical fit and biomechanical study

Abstract

Background

Materials and methods

Results

Discussion and conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Materials and methods

Results

Discussion and conclusion

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