What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to compare the performance of unilaterally plated constructs and orthogonally plated constructs under specific loading conditions.

March 18, 2026Open Access

Biomechanical Analysis of Orthogonal and Unilateral Locking Plate Constructs in a Fracture Gap Model

Key Points

This research aims to compare the performance of unilaterally plated constructs and orthogonally plated constructs under specific loading conditions.
Compared three sizes of orthogonally plated constructs against unilaterally plated constructs.
Conducted cyclic and static axial compression load to failure tests using a fracture gap model.
Measured load to failure and analyzed the impact of cyclic loading on construct strength and stiffness.
Orthogonally plated constructs demonstrated improved load to failure compared to unilaterally plated constructs.
Increased plate size correlated with enhanced cyclic fatigue strength and stiffness.
Constructs subjected to cyclic loading showed differences in performance compared to static filing conditions.

Abstract

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to compare unilaterally plated (UP) constructs and orthogonally plated (OP) constructs of differing sizes (3.5 mm + 2.0 mm locking plates OP2.0, 3.5 mm + 2.4 mm locking plates OP2.4 and 3.5 mm + 3.0 mm locking plates OP3.0) under cyclic and static axial compression load to failure testing using a fracture gap model. The secondary aim was to evaluate the effect of cyclic loading on load to failure testing and to determine if increasing the overall strength and stiffness of the construct by adding orthogonal plates has an effect on cyclic fatigue strength and stiffness when compared to non-fatigued constructs.

Biomechanical Analysis of Orthogonal and Unilateral Locking Plate Constructs in a Fracture Gap Model

Key Points

Abstract

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