Conventional Plate System Research Articles

Finite Element Analysis of New Modified Three-dimensional Strut Miniplate versus Conventional Plating in Mandibular Symphysis and Angle Fractures - An In vitro Study.

Mandibular fractures are common injuries during maxillofacial trauma, and currently, open reduction and internal fixation are considered gold-standard treatments. There is a wide discussion about which plates give the best outcomes. Hence, we are conducting a biomechanical comparison of two plates for mandibular symphysis and angle fracture with finite element analysis (FEA). The aim of this study was to do a comparative study of FEA between the conventional and our new modified three-dimensional (3D) strut miniplate in mandibular fractures at symphysis and angle regions. Finite element models of symphyseal and angle fractures of the mandible were developed. Each fracture model was then realigned and fixed by the conventional method 2.0 mm system, and our modified 3D strut plating method 2.0 mm system followed by the analysis of various stresses developed in plates and mandibular fracture area after application of load was observed in the study. The modified 3D strut plating system with 2.0 mm miniplates is significantly better in preventing displacement of fracture segments by better distribution of forces compared to the conventional plating system. Rest of the parameters were within the permitted limits. Modified 3D strut plating method was reasonably effective and superior in managing force-displacement compared to the conventional method of fixation for comminuted and unfavourable mandibular symphyseal fracture and angle fracture.

The clinical efficacy of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with ROI-C device vs. plate-cage in managing traumatic central cord syndrome.

To assess the efficacy and complications of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with ROI-C device vs. conventional anterior plate and cage system (APCS) in managing traumatic central cord syndrome (TCCS). A total of 37 patients diagnosed with TCCS who underwent ACDF with ROI-C implant and APCS were recruited in this retrospective study from June 2012 to February 2020. Radiological parameters and clinical results were recorded and compared through follow-up time. Characteristics of patients and complications were also recorded. All patients tolerated the procedure well. The average follow-up time was 25.00 ± 7.99 months in the ROI-C group, and 21.29 ± 7.41 months in the APCS group. The blood loss and operation time were significantly lower in the ROI-C group than in the APCS group. Radiological parameters and clinical results were all improved postoperatively and maintained at the final follow-up. Fusion was achieved in all patients. ROI-C group had a lower incidence of postoperative dysphagia than the APCS group. Only 1 case of ALD was observed at the final follow-up in the APCS group. Both ROI-C device and APCS demonstrated satisfactory clinical effects and safety in managing symptomatic single-level traumatic central cord syndrome with underlying instability. Both techniques could improve and maintain cervical lordosis and disc height. ROI-C device was related to a lower incidence of postoperative dysphagia, shorter operation time, and less blood loss.

Cost Estimate and Input Energy of Floor Systems in Low Seismic Regions

Reinforced concrete (RC) as a material is most commonly used for buildings construction. Several floor systems are available following the structural and architectural requirements. The current research study provides cost and input energy comparisons of RC office buildings of different floor systems. Conventional solid, ribbed, flat plate and flat slab systems are considered in the study. Building models in three-dimensional using extended three-dimensional analysis of building systems (ETABS) and in two-dimensional using slab analysis by the finite element (SAFE) are developed for analysis purposes. Analysis and design using both software packages and manual calculations are employed to obtain the optimum sections and reinforcements to fit cities of low seismic intensities for all the considered building systems. Two ground motion records of low peak ground acceleration (PGA) levels are used to excite the models to measure the input energies. Uniformat cost estimating system is adopted to categorize building components according to 12 divisions. Also, Microsoft (MS) Project is utilized to identify the construction cost and duration of each building system. The study shows that floor system significantly causes changes in the input energy to structures. In addition, the slight increase in the PGA increases the amount of input energy particularly flat plate system. Estimated cost of the flat plate system that the flat slab system is of higher value as compared to ribbed and conventional slab systems. The use of drop panels increases this value as well. Moreover, the estimated cost of the ribbed slab system exceeds that of conventional system.

Design process of patient-specific osteosynthesis plates using topology optimization

Abstract To reduce complications related to the osteosynthesis plating system, the use of a patient-specific plate design was proposed. However, the issue of associated complications is still critical. Because existing patient-specific plate designs have mainly relied on parametric studies, a design method is needed that considers the complex factors influencing the performance of the reconstruction and that can be generalized for various patients. The goal of this study was to propose a design process that can strengthen the advantages of a customized plate to reduce patient discomfort and ensure the stability of surgery. We applied topology optimization to design a plate for a case of mandibular condyle fracture. The optimization problem was set to maximize the plate stiffness and minimize its volume. The performance of the designed plate was evaluated using finite element simulations, which approximated the various mastication states. Plate performance was then compared with the performance of two conventional plating systems: bent plates and computerized numerical control-machined plates. The conventional plate models used a pair of mini-plates, and the bent plate was modeled by conducting bending simulation. Each finite element model was appraised via masticatory simulations under static molar-jaw-closing conditions. Differences in stress concentration were noted between the model with bent plates and the model with computerized numerical control-machined plates. The most severe stress concentration occurred in the bent plate, which was affected by the residual stress from the bending process. In comparison with the two conventional plates, the newly designed plate exhibited significantly improved biomechanical stability in terms of stress and stiffness and had approximately twice the endurance capability against fractured bone separation. The newly designed plate was designed to have a balance between volume and plate stiffness, and it showed superior stability over the conventional plates. The proposed plate design process using topology optimization is an effective method not only because it enhances the advantages of the patient-specific plate but also because it can be applied in various reconstruction cases.

CLINICAL EVALUATION OF EFFICACY OF MINIMAL INVASIVE PLATE OSTEOSYN THESIS TECHNIQUE FOR SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF SUPRACONDYLAR FEMUR FRACTURES

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To study Union rate (time to union), time of mobilization, functional results, radiological results, complications of supracondylar femur fractures treated by MIPO techniques with distal femur locking compression plate (DF-LCP). MATERIALANDMETHODS: This is a prospective study of 30 Patients, with supracondylar femur fractures (AO classication A) who were treated with distal femur locking compression plate (DF- LCP) by MIPO techniques at Department of Orthopaedics, SSKM & IPGMER KOLKATA from 1stJAN2015 to 31st JULY 2016.The study sample size was 30 patients and all these patients were included with predened inclusion & exclusion criteria in this study. Minimum of 12 months and a maximum of 17 months follow up were done. The functional and radiographic results were recorded according to Knee Society Score criteria. RESULTS: The average time to union was 3.93 months with a range of 2 – 7 months (8 – 28 weeks) and standard deviation being 1.13. The Mean range of exion obtained postoperatively was 108.830 with a range of 900– 1250. Six decreased knee movements, two mal-alignment, two implant failure and two infection were the residual complications in our study. Follow up of our cases included from a minimum of 12 months to a maximum of 17 months. Excellent results were seen in 3 cases, good in 10, fair in 12 and 5 case of poor results was seen. CONCLUSION: We conclude that MIPO technique with DF-LCP in distal femoral fractures is a safe and reliable option. It may substitute a conventional plate and screw system (compression method) in treatment of complex distal femoral fractures especially in osteoporotic bone. Further randomized controlled studies are required in different situations to know the usefulness of this implant.

Evaluation of failure of a titanium conventional plate in mandibular reconstruction and improve the performance with fibula free flap

Maxillofacial extensive defects are caused by various factors such as tumor, osteomyelitis and trauma. Reconstruction of such injuries become a major challenge for maxillofacial surgeons. Clinical experiments indicate that one of the serious problems associated with conventional plate systems is the frequent incidence of complications such as screw loosening, plate exposure and plate fractures. To improve the performance of reconstruction system with new procedure. A 42-year-old male patient suffering from Ameloblastoma tumor in the lateral large defect was selected as case study. Initially, after cutting the cancerous tissue, a titanium conventional plate (TCP) model had been utilized as mandibular reconstruction system which failed due to plate exposure. Patient's CT-scan images were prepared, and geometry and shape of the plate were evaluated using Computer-Aided Design & Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology. Then, its effect on the biomechanical performance of the failed system TCP model was investigated by finite element method (FEM). Fibula Free Flap FFF model as alternative and improved reconstruction system was selected. FEM evaluation of two models showed inevitable results which tip the scales in the favor of FFF model. The maximum Von-Mises stress had been exerted at the interface between screw-cortical bone. In TCP model, the peak value of Von-Mises stress exerted at the interface between screw-bone was 110 MPa, which exceeded the yield strength of the cortical bone, while, this factor fell to 68 MPa in FFF model. Furthermore, comparison with TCP model, the sensitivity of the plates and screws to the chewing load variations in FFF model decreased 20%. The results showed that the FFF model was more stable and flexible than the TCP model.

Complications of Low-Profile Plate Fixation in Metacarpal Fractures.

High complication rates have been reported using conventional plating systems to treat metacarpal fractures. This study investigated complication rates in metacarpal fractures treated with low-profile anatomic plates. A retrospective chart review was performed of patients with metacarpal fractures who were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using low-profile anatomic plates at a single institution from January 2010 to February 2017. Patients with concomitant tendon injury, open fractures, prior same metacarpal fracture, or thumb metacarpal fracture were excluded. A total of 79 patients with 110 metacarpal fractures were included. The primary outcome was the presence of a complication, defined as superficial or deep infection, delayed wound healing, delayed union, nonunion, major or minor extensor lag or stiffness 90 days postoperatively, or return to the operating room. Eleven fractures (10%) had 1 or more complications. Complications included 6 fractures (5%) with major extensor lag or stiffness, 4 fractures (4%) with minor extensor lag or stiffness, 1 fracture (1%) with delayed radiographic union that did not require operative intervention, and 1 fracture (1%) with return to the operating room for removal of hardware. In this retrospective study, treatment of metacarpal fractures with low-profile plate fixation resulted in a 10% overall complication rate and a 1% reoperation rate; this rate is significantly less than reported in previous literature prior to the widespread use of low-profile plates. This study suggests treatment of patients with metacarpal fractures using low-profile plating systems provides a reliable solution with acceptable complication rates. [Orthopedics. 2021;44(1):e91-e94.].

Identification and Analysis of Blood Group with Digital Microscope Using Image Processing

Blood group identification is an essential examination for transfusion and also for lot of health check procedures. Conventional micro plate system is painstaking. In this study, an automatic moving conveyor belt setup was developed to assist the diagnosis procedure. Blood group identification is done based on the images acquired through light microscopes. A blood distribution on polystyrene coated bio paper and the captured image data has been analysed using Image Acquisition software. The image morphological patterns were analysed to obtain the identification blood group by capturing its microstructure. At end of each test, based on the clumping and its image morphology of the corresponding colour coding was analysed to identify the blood groups. The focus on the present study is to investigate the chance of quick and precise, sensitivity and concurrent identification of blood group will weigh up its usefulness in the routine use.

Comparative analysis of a novel low concentration dual photovoltaic/phase change material system with a non-concentrator photovoltaic system

In this work, a novel design of a concentrated photovoltaic system with thermal management using phase change material is analyzed. The novelty lies in utilizing two mono-facial photovoltaic cells, installing one on upper side of the receiver to receive non-concentrated sunlight and installing another photovoltaic cell on bottom side to receive concentrated sunlight. An RT47 (melting range of 41-48?) phase change material enclosed in an aluminum containment regulates the temperature of the system. Parabolic trough concentrator is used to focus sunlight on the bottom photovoltaic cell with a concentration ratio of 25. A finite volume based coupled thermal, electrical and optical model is developed and the system is analyzed for environmental conditions of Doha, Qatar. Temperature regulation and electrical power output of upper photovoltaic cell and bottom concentrated photovoltaic cell of proposed design are compared to a conventional flat plate system. Analysis is made for one day of each month of a year. It is found that the proposed design maintains the temperature below 85? for all months of a year. The performance of the proposed system is comparable to the conventional flat plate system and excels it with power production in the range of ?4.7% and +21.7%.

2 mm Conventional Miniplates with Three-Dimensional Strut Plate in Mandibular Fractures.

Aim:The aim of this study was to compare 2 mm conventional miniplates with three-dimensional (3D) strut plates in the treatment of mandibular fractures treated in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of a college in India, during 2012–2015.Materials and Methods:All 20 patients with mandible fracture requiring open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture were reported and reviewed in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of the same dental college in India, during 2012–2015. We classified the data according to the gender, age, etiology, fracture site, and method of treatment of the fractures. Fixation done in 10 patients with 2 mm conventional miniplates kept in Group I, while 10 patients with 3D strut miniplate system considered in Group II.Results:Assessment of patient was done under the following parameters with follow-up at regular intervals at 2nd day postoperatively and at 1st, 3rd, and 6th weeks postoperatively: pain, swelling, infection, interincisal mouth opening in millimeters, paresthesia/anesthesia, mobility between fracture fragments, overall occlusion, need for any supplemental fixation, fate of implant, and complications.Conclusions:3D titanium miniplates showed similar results when compared to standard titanium miniplates with advantages such as reduction in operative time, ease of placement, and cost-effective over the conventional plate system.

Evaluation of mini-locking plate system in management of body mandibular fracture (Clinical study)

Aim: To evaluate the mini-locking plate system in management of body mandibular fracture. Patient and methods: Twenty patients were randomly classified into two equal groups. Group (1): (The study group): Ten patients were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using single 2.0mm locking plate and arch bar as a tension band maintained for 5 weeks. Group (2): (The control group) Ten patients received the same treatment as in group (1) but with single 2.0mm conventional plate. Follow- up was performed for 6 months and post-operative complications such as infection, wound dehiscence, neurosensory disturbances and malocclusion were recorded. Arch bar was removed after 5 weeks of surgery. Data regarding age, sex, and bone density at the fracture side during healing, bite force measurements at anterior, premolar and molar regions were collected, tabulated and statistically analyzed using IBM SPSS software package version 20.0. Results: Uneventful healing of all fractures treated with mini-locking plates and conventional plate system, with no cases of malunion, nonunion, infection, or malocclusion being observed through the follow up periods. There was statistically difference between both groups regarding the mean bone density one week, 1, 3 and 6 months post-operatively. Bite force recording showed increasing values at subsequent follow ups corresponding to the healing of the fracture in both groups. Conclusion: Bone density in group (1) was in an accelerated pattern and of higher value than that of group (2). Patients treated with locking plate screw system regain more bite force compared to those treated with conventional miniplate screw system.

Comparison of Locking Versus Nonlocking Plates for Distal Fibula Fractures

Locking plates might offer a biomechanical fixation advantage for distal fibula fractures with comminution or osteoporotic bone. In January 2011, our unit introduced a bone-specific locking plate for the distal fibula. The aim of the present study was to compare it against more conventional plating system implants for lateral malleolar fixation in terms of outcomes, crude costs, and complications. We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive cohort of patients with closed ankle fractures who presented within a 24-month period. The clinical and radiographic outcomes were compared among conventional plating using a one-third semitubular plate, a 3.5-mm limited-contact dynamic compression plate, and a 2.7-mm/3.5-mm locking compression distal fibula plate. A total of 145 patients with ankle fractures underwent surgical fixation: 87 (60.0%) with the semitubular plate, 22 (15.2%) with the limited-contact dynamic compression plate, and 36 (24.8%) with the locking compression distal fibula plate. A greater proportion of patients with established osteoporosis or osteoporosis risk factors were in the locking compression distal fibula plate group (27.8% versus 2.3% and 0%). Four patients (2.8%) required washout for infection. No significant differences were found between the sex distribution within the 3 groups (p = .432). No significant difference was found in the complication rate (p = .914) or the reoperation rate (p = .291) among the 3 groups. Although costing >6 times more than a standard fibula fixation construct (implant cost), bone-specific locking compression distal fibula plates add to the portfolio of implants available, especially for unstable fractures with poor bone quality.

Treatment of distal humerus fractures with Extra-articular Locking Compression Plate technique

Introduction- Fractures of the distal end humerus possess a challenge owing to unique anatomical features and dearth for its approach. Pre-countoured locking compression plates have more benefits than the conventional plating systems. The aim of this study was to determine the functional outcome of Extra-articular distal Locking compression plate in distal humeral shaft fractures. Material and Methods-47 patients with closed distal third humerus fracture were treated with plating between July 2012 and Aug 2014. The Inclusion criteria were patients with closed distal third extra–articular humerus fractures. Polytrauma, intra-articular fractures and patients with prior radial nerve involvement were excluded from the study. Results- The mean age of the patient was 40±2 years. 36 (76.5%) cases had road traffic accident, 8 (17.02%) had domestic fall while 3 (6.38%) had an assault. 12-A was the commonest fracture pattern as per the AO classification system. Average duration of surgery was 94±10 mins. Majority of the fractures united at 13±06 weeks (P

Is cannulated-screw fixation an alternative to plate osteosynthesis in open book fractures? A biomechanical analysis

The current biomechanical work compares the symphyseal and sacroiliac stability obtained with two systems of bone osteosynthesis. The two methods of fixation compared were the 6-hole suprapubic non-locked plate and pubic fixation with two cannulated screws, a novel technique that can be applied percutaneously in the clinical practice. The aim of this study was to examine the validity of the use of two-cannulated-screws osteosynthesis in order to minimize the secondary effects of open fixation, especially in patients in whom an open reduction is contraindicated. A biomechanical study was designed in 9 fresh, human pelvis specimens, simulating an AO B1.1 type injury, using both fixation systems sequentially in each specimen. In both parts of the test, the specimens were subjected to an axial load of 300N. Displacements and rotations between the different pelvic elements were studied by means of a discrete set of points. The absence of differences between the two systems has been set as the null hypothesis. There were significant differences in favor of the cross-cannulated screws in most of the displacements measured at the pubic symphysis and sacroiliac joint. Fixation of the AO B1.1 type fractures with cross cannulated screws restores the biomechanical behavior of the pubic symphysis, obtaining better stability than fixation with the 6-hole non-locked plate. To date, no comparative, biomechanical studies have been conducted with these two systems of osteosynthesis. This study demonstrates that cross-cannulated screws fixation of the pubic symphysis in AO B1.1 pelvic fractures should be considered as an alternative to the conventional plating system.

Absorbable Plate-Related Infection after Facial Bone Fracture Reduction.

Absorbable plates are used widely for fixation of facial bone fractures. Compared to conventional titanium plating systems, absorbable plates have many favorable traits. They are not palpable after plate absorption, which obviates the need for plate removal. Absorbable plate-related infections are relatively uncommon at less than 5% of patients undergoing fixation of facial bone fractures. The plates are made from a mixture of poly-L-lactic acid and poly-DL-lactic acid or poly-DL-lactic acid and polyglycolic acid, and the ratio of these biodegradable polymers is used to control the longevity of the plates. Degradation rate of absorbable plate is closely related to the chance of infection. Low degradation is associated with increased accumulation of plate debris, which in turn can increase the chance of infection. Predisposing factors for absorbable plate-related infection include the presence of maxillary sinusitis, plate proximity to incision site, and use of tobacco and significant amount of alcohol. Using short screws in fixating maxillary fracture accompanied maxillary sinusitis will increase the rate of infection. Avoiding fixating plates near the incision site will also minimize infection. Close observation until complete absorption of the plate is crucial, especially those who are smokers or heavy alcoholics. The management of plate infection is varied depending on the clinical situation. Severe infections require plate removal. Wound culture and radiologic exam are essential in treatment planning.

Bite Force Evaluation of Conventional Plating System Versus Locking Plating System for Mandibular Fracture.

To compare and evaluate the variation in recorded bite forces in patients with mandibular fractures undergoing open reduction and rigid internal fixation using standard 2.0 versus 2.0mm locking miniplates. A prospective randomized study was conducted for the treatment of mandibular fractures. Twenty adult patients with 31 mandibular fractures requiring an open reduction and internal fixation were included in the study. The sample was divided into two groups depending upon whether the patients received 2.0mm non-locking (standard) or 2.0mm locking miniplates for rigid fixation respectively. Bite force was evaluated at 1st, 3rd and 6th week after the open reduction and rigid fixation using miniplates. A statistically significant difference was not found in the clinical parameters such as pain, swelling, infection, paresthesia, hardware failure, and mobility between the fracture segments. The results showed that amongst locking vs non-locking miniplates, the former showed a greater bite force enhancement when compared to baseline values(post-trauma).A comparison between 2nd day post-operative vs 6th week post-operative values showed a significant increase in bite force in Group 1 (non-locking) (p<0.05) whereas the values Were highly significant (p<0.001) in Group 2 (locking Plate). The findings were suggestive that the efficacy of locking miniplates plate in mandibular fracture was superior in terms of bearing the masticatory loads during osteosynthesis of the fracture. However, the clinical results were almost similar to those seen with non-locking miniplate osteosynthesis.

Study of Efficacy and the Comparison Between 2.0mm Locking Plating System and 2.0mm Standard Plating System in Mandibular Fractures.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and comparison between 2.0mm locking plate system and 2.0mm Champy's titanium mini plating system in mandible fractures. A total of 20 patients with mandibular fractures were selected and divided into two groups A and B on randomized basis. Group A was treated with open reduction internal fixation using 2.0mm locking plates and group B with 2.0mm Champy's titanium miniplates. All patients were followed up for 12weeks postoperatively. Results of the study show less screw loosening, less precision in plate adaptation and less alteration of the osseous or occlusal relationship upon screw tightening in group A. Chi square test was applied to compare the results between the two groups. Statistical analysis did not show significant difference of incidence of malocclusion between the two groups (p value=0.606). Statistical analysis using un-paired t test showed significant difference of working time between the two groups (p value=0.00296). When comparing the overall complication rates according to plates used, the χ(2) test showed no statistically significant difference between the locking and nonlocking plates (p>0.05). It is observed in our study that the locking plate/screw system offers significant advantages over the conventional plating system. The precise adaptation required for using conventional plates is not needed when this locking plate/screw system is used. Locking plate/screw system provides better stability than the conventional plate/screw system.

Stability of Midface Fracture Repair Using Absorbable Plate and Screw System Pilot Holes Drilled and Pin Placement at Angles Other Than 90°

Conventional plating systems use titanium plates for fixation of fractures, with benefits of strength and biocompatibility. However, titanium plates require that screws be placed at a 90° angle to the pilot holes. In the midface, this becomes extremely difficult. Today, a variety of craniomaxillofacial osteosynthesis systems are available, including resorbable plating systems. Specifically, the KLS Martin Sonic Weld system ultrasonically fuses the plate and the head of the pin when placed and will fill the pilot hole grooves completely even at less than 90° angles, which provides a tremendous advantage in midface fracture repair. To determine if the KLS Martin Sonic Weld system provides plate-screw construct stability in human heads even when placed at acute angles at the midface buttresses. DESIGN, SETTING, AND SPECIMENS: Twenty cadaveric head specimens with the mandible removed were prepared by creating osteotomies in the midface buttresses bilaterally. Specimens were defleshed and placed in a 2-part testing rig to hold and position the head for testing in a standard material testing system. Testing was performed at the Wayne State University Bioengineering test laboratories, Detroit, Michigan, using an Instron device and high-speed camera. Specimens were plated on one side of the midface using the KLS Martin Sonic Weld system with pilot holes and pins placed at 90° angles. On the contralateral side, the buttresses were plated with the KLS Martin Sonic Weld system at 60°, 45°, and 30° angles. Data were collected using the TDAS data acquisition system and were compared with matched pairs within each specimen. Ultrasonically vibrated pins placed into absorbable mini-plates at less than 90° angles with the KLS Martin Sonic Weld system were compared with the same amount of stress as the system placed at a 90° angle before demonstrating plate-screw construct failure. RESULTS Fifty-seven paired tests were collected, with 114 total tests. Twenty failures were due to bone breakage, and 94 fixations failed as a result of the plate-screw construct breaking. Fractures fixated with the ultrasonic absorbable plating system placed with screws at all tested angles failed at similar loads to our control plates with pins placed at 90° angles. These results lend the surgeon to successfully reduce fractures in the midface fragments in difficult-to-reach areas and possibly cut down on operative time while improving the chance of achieving a long-lasting adequate reduction. Although there is a measured difference in the laboratory, no clinical difference is observed because the maximum force is not usually encountered. Overall, the clinical scenario indicates absorbable plates to be a viable option in less accessible areas. NA.

Comparative evaluation of bite forces in patients after treatment of mandibular fractures with miniplate osteosynthesis and internal locking miniplate osteosynthesis.

Aims and Objectives:The aim of present study was to compare the stability of fractured mandibular fragments under functional load, when fixed with conventional miniplate and internal locking miniplate.Materials and Methods:Bite force (in kg) recorded in twenty mandible fractured patients and fifty normal healthy individuals. Bite force was measured at incisor and molar regions. Comparative evaluation of bite force generated was performed between 10 cases treated with conventional miniplates and 10 cases treated with internal locking miniplates. Bite force generated by patients in mandibular fracture between symphysis and the angle of mandible was recorded in incisor and molar regions preoperatively. The fracture fragments were fixed using the above fixation techniques. Then same recording was undertaken on the 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, and 90th days postoperatively.Results:Bite force generated by patients treated with locking plates at the 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, and 90th postoperative days was significantly higher as compared to those in patients treated with miniplates.Conclusion:It was observed in our study that the locking plate/screw system offers significant advantages over the conventional plating system. There are no intraoperative difficulties associated with placement of the plate.

In vitro biomechanical comparison of a newly designed interlocking nail system to a standard DCP

To describe a newly designed interlocking nail system (Targon® Vet System, TVS) tested in a model of diaphyseal femoral fractures in cats. Introduction of the TVS and presentation of the system components. Evaluation of application range and biomechanical testing of the TVS in cadaver bones under cyclic loading until fatigue failure occurred. The first two test groups compared the influence of implantation and immediate removal of the TVS locking bolts and six holes created by 2.0 mm cortical screws on the stability of feline femora. In the third group the two fixation systems were compared to each other with implants in place in an osteotomy gap model. The failure mode was statistically compared for each group (p < 0.05). Femora after implantation and removal of the bolts of the TVS were significantly stiffer than after implantation and removal of the six 2.0 mm cortical screws. In the osteotomy gap model, femora with the TVS in place failed some- what later, but not statistically significant, than the opposite femur of the same cat with the 2.0 8-hole DCP in place. Using this testing method, stability of the TVS seems to be biomechanically comparable to conventional osteosynthesis plate systems. Therefore the TVS may be an encouraging alternative to conventional osteosynthesis systems in diaphyseal fractures, offering several advantages without the need for extensive specialized equipment.