Biomechanical comparison of three locking plate constructs for stabilization of a femoral segmental defect model in cats.

Dual locking plates and plate-rod constructs provide equivalent stiffness for feline femoral fractures.

This biomechanical study evaluated three titanium locking plate constructs for stabilizing simulated comminuted femoral shaft fractures in cats using a segmental defect model. The study compared a single 16-hole locking plate (G1), a plate-rod construct with intramedullary pin (G2), dual plates in orthogonal configuration (G3), and intact bone (G4). All constructs underwent cyclic eccentric axial compression followed by destructive testing. During cyclic loading, G2 and G3 demonstrated similar stiffness with less deformation than G1. Gauge 2 measurements revealed greater deformation in G2 compared to G3. Destructive testing showed no significant differences in stiffness among the three plate constructs, with equivalent maximum force and displacement values. Group 4 (intact bone) differed significantly from all treatment groups. The findings indicate that both plate-rod and dual plate constructs provide comparable biomechanical stability for this fracture model, though the plate-rod configuration exhibited increased deformation during cyclic loading, potentially affecting clinical performance in dynamic situations.

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