Evolution of the Internal Fixation of Long Bone Fractures

A paradigm shift of the conventional intramedullary devices to new biological osteosynthetic devices: Bone stents

“…In addition, studies in the 1999 showed that immediate weight bearing in patients with femur fractures, fixed with large diameter nails, with high fatigue strength, promoted mobilization 4 . Finally, the concept of "biological internal fixation" 19 lead to the development of a method known as, Less Invasive Stabilizing System (LISS). This system consists of a plate that functions as an internal fixator and was inserted through a small incision.…”

Repair of long-bone fractures in cats and small dogs with the Unilock mandible locking plate system

“…semi-rigid stabilisation (1), fracture stabilisation in animal patients should be strong enough to allow immediate postoperative weight bearing (9). Also, the size of bones, thickness of cortices, and forces to be counteracted may not be comparable between human and small animal patients.…”

“…Experimental and clinical studies in human surgery have generally shown internal fixators to be superior to conventional plates in terms of simplicity of handling, progression of fracture healing, and local resistance to infection (1)(2)(3). Internal fixators do not require perfect contouring to the bone surface to maintain fracture reduction; this reduces surgery time and allows biological fracture treatment by using a limited open approach.…”

“…Construct stability and resistance to screw loosening or pull-out have been reported to be superior with internal fixators in comparison to conventional plates (4,5). Furthermore, because locking screws are under minimal tensile preload, they do not need to engage two cortices and can be inserted monocortically (1).…”

Scintigraphy in postoperative follow-up of osteosynthesis of the femur with a bridge plate associated with an intramedullary pin in rabbits

“…Pin blocks, bridge plates and no-contact plates are examples of methods used for biological fixation. Biological internal fixation does not impair bone consolidation, restores the early function of the limb and meets the principles of minimal tissue injury (Perren, 2002).…”