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Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery

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Open Access 01-04-2010 | Orthopaedic Surgery

Biomechanical evaluation of fixation of comminuted olecranon fractures: one-third tubular versus locking compression plating

Authors: Geert A. Buijze, Leendert Blankevoort, Gabriëlle J. M. Tuijthof, Inger N. Sierevelt, Peter Kloen

Published in: Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery | Issue 4/2010

Abstract

Introduction

New concepts in plate fixation have led to an evolution in plate design for olecranon fractures. The purpose of this study was to compare the stiffness and strength of locking compression plate (LCP) fixation to one-third tubular plate fixation in a cadaveric comminuted olecranon fracture model with a standardised osteotomy.

Materials and methods

Five matched pairs of cadaveric elbows were randomly assigned for fixation by either a contoured LCP combined with an intramedullary screw and unicortical locking screws or a one-third tubular plate combined with bicortical screws. Construct stiffness was measured by subjecting the specimens to cyclic loading while measuring gapping at the osteotomy site. Construct strength was measured by subjecting specimens to ramp load until failure.

Results

There was no significant difference in fixation stiffness and strength between the two fixation methods. All failures consisted of failure of the bone and not of the hardware.

Conclusion

Contoured LCP and intramedullary screw fixation can be used as an alternative treatment method for comminuted olecranon fractures as its stiffness and strength were not significantly different from a conventional plating technique.

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Title: Biomechanical evaluation of fixation of comminuted olecranon fractures: one-third tubular versus locking compression plating
Authors: Geert A. Buijze
Leendert Blankevoort
Gabriëlle J. M. Tuijthof
Inger N. Sierevelt
Peter Kloen
Publication date: 01-04-2010
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery / Issue 4/2010
Print ISSN: 0936-8051
Electronic ISSN: 1434-3916
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-009-0980-z

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Biomechanical evaluation of fixation of comminuted olecranon fractures: one-third tubular versus locking compression plating

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

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