Purpose.To analyse the biomechanical characteristics of locking plates under cyclic loading compared to a nonlocking plate in a diaphyseal metacarpal fracture.Methods.Oblique diaphyseal shaft fractures in porcine metacarpal bones were created in a biomechanical fracture model. An anatomical reduction and stabilization with a nonlocking and a comparable locking plate in mono- or bicortical screw fixation followed. Under cyclic loading, the displacement, and in subsequent load-to-failure tests, the maximum load and stiffness were measured.Results.For the monocortical screw fixation of the locking plate, a similar displacement, maximum load, and stiffness could be demonstrated compared to the bicortical screw fixation of the nonlocking plate.Conclusions.Locking plates in monocortical configuration may function as a useful alternative to the currently common treatment with bicortical fixations. Thereby, irritation of the flexor tendons would be avoided without compromising the stability, thus enabling the necessary early functional rehabilitation.
Biomechanical Comparison of Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy Performed With a Novel Titanium Alloy Locking Plate Construct vs. an Established Stainless-Steel Locking Plate Construct