Biomechanical comparison of three internal fixation methods for intercondylar fracture of humerus / 解放军医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective A biomechanical comparison of three kinds of internal fixation for intercondylar fracture of humerus was, made so as to provide a theoretical basis for clinical practice. Methods 18 fresh humeri were used to reproduce T-type intercondylar fracture, and three different fixation appliances were applied, including cross Kirschner wire with addition of “8” wire, single “Y” type plate, 1/3 tubular plate with reconstruction plate. Biomechanical tests were performed on these specimens. Result Under the same load condition, 1/3 tubular plate with reconstruction plate yielded the best results, while crossing Kirschner wire with “8” wire was the poorest. Conclusion The results showed that 1/3 tubular plate with reconstruction plate was a good internal fixation appliance. It has a proper design and stability, but it is not easy to apply. Therefore, an optimal method should be chosen according to local condition in clinical practice.