Study DesignEx vivo anatomic study.
Sample PopulationCanine cadavers (n=10 Greyhounds).
MethodsAn anatomic landmark for pin insertion was identified based on three-dimensional reconstructions of previous elbow computed tomography studies and cadaveric dissection of the medial aspect of the humeral condyle. Bilateral distal normograde IM pin and LCP placement were performed and confirmed radiographically and by disarticulation and sagittal sectioning.
ResultsThe anatomic landmark for pin insertion was consistently identified in each specimen using the technique described. Distal normograde insertion of a 3.5 mm IM pin was possible in Greyhound cadaveric humeri at the described location in conjunction with a 3.5 mm LCP with fixed angle, locked screws. A monocortical locking screw was required to avoid interference with the IM pin in 28 of 60 of the 3 proximal screw holes. No pin interference was encountered in any of the distal screw holes.
ConclusionThe anatomic landmark and technique described in our study enabled repeatable successful placement Plate-rod constructs have also been reported for humeral fracture repair.[1, 9] Advantages over a bone plate alone include simplifying fracture reduction, maintaining spatial alignment, reducing plate strain across the fracture gap, and increasing the stiffness, load to failure, and fatigue life of the construct.[10-12] Current general recommendations for plate-rod constructs recommend the use of a pin that occupies 30-40% of the narrowest IM diameter. [10,12]
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