Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine how well laterally placed modern tibia locking plates used in the treatment of Schatzker V tibial plateau fractures would uphold the medial plateau during axial loading. Fifteen third generation Sawbone tibias were obtained and an osteotomy was cut beneath the medial plateau to recreate Schatzker V type plateau fractures. Three groups were created (n=5 per group). Each group was plated with either a Synthes 4.5-mm LCP proximal tibial plate, a Zimmer NCB proximal tibia plate, or a DePuy Polyax tibial plate. A vertical load was applied over the medial plateau using an Instron servohydraulic test machine. Load measurements were analyzed at 2 and 3 mm of subsidence as well as load to failure. Failure was defined as closure of the wedge osteotomy or the medial condyle collapsing. A statistical difference was noted between the 2 plates from Synthes and DePuy and the plate from Zimmer with load carried at 2 and 3 mm of subsidence (Synthes 640.4 N & 943.7 N, Depuy 607.4 N & 891.0 N, Zimmer 459.7 N & 643.2 N). At failure, DePuy (2051.2 N) was statistically stronger than both Synthes (1724.8 N) and Zimmer (1724.8 N). The Synthes and DePuy plates both held up better than the Zimmer plate at 2 and 3 mm of subsidence. Despite this fact, all plates tested held up well above physiological forces of full and partial weight bearing and therefore would be appropriate for the treatment of Schatzker V type tibial plateau fractures.
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