Abstract
The rigid plating of bones leads to a condition of reduced bone mass under the plate. This condition, stress protection osteopenia, is of concern to clinicians because of a risk of fracture of the weakened bone after plate removal. The extent of stress protection and the consequent osteopenia is dependent on the structural rigidity of the plate in relation to the rigidity of the bone. Stress reduction of up to 50% is possible when rigid metal plates are placed on long bones. Even though numerous experimental animal studies have documented morphological changes and decreases in bone strength due to plating, more clinical studies are needed to documentthe extent of stress protection osteopenia in humans. The use of less rigid plates and the use of plates that become progressively less rigid with time are being explored as a means of circumventing the problem of stress protection.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
