Do Plates Used for Internal Fixation During Fracture Healing Maintain Their Metal Structure and Function?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION[|]Dynamic compression plates used in fracture fixation were divided into 2 groups according to the location of use: upper extremity (Group 1) and lower extremity (Group 2). The metallic structure and properties of the plates were evaluated using radiographic, penetrant, and chemical analysis.[¤]METHODS[|]There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of patient sex, mean age, side distribution, or removal time (p>0.05).[¤]RESULTS[|]No instance of microfracture was observed in the radiological and penetrant analysis of the plates. There was no metal loss or metal ratio change observed in the chemical analysis. There appears to be no additional benefit of durability based on the metal compound and no damage was observed during an appropriate period of use.[¤]DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION[|]The successful use of plates in weight-bearing areas as well as non-weight-bearing areas with no damage may lead to further research and the production of lower cost alternatives that are equally durable.[¤]

Keywords

• internal fixation; metal structure; plate.