Biomechanical comparison of single versus double plate osteosynthesis in acromion type III fractures.

Background

One of complications of the reverse shoulder arthroplasty is acromion fractures, and its therapy is controversial. The aim of the study was to investigate the double-plate osteosynthesis for these fractures.

Methods

An acromion type III fracture according to classification of Levy was simulated in 16 human shoulder cadavers, and the specimens were randomly divided into two groups. Single-plate osteosynthesis was performed in the first group (locking compression plate) and double-plate osteosynthesis (locking compression plate and one-third tubular locking plate) in the second group. Biomechanical testing included cycling load and load at failure on a material testing machine. During the test, the translation was measured using an optical tracking system.

Results

The load at failure for the single-plate osteosynthesis was 167 N and for the double-osteosynthesis 233.7 N (

Discussion

Results of the biomechanical study showed that double-plate osteosynthesis had biomechanical properties similar to those of single-plate osteosynthesis for an acromion type III fracture at time point zero. The missing advantages of double-plate osteosynthesis can be explained by the choice of plate configuration.

Déclaration de conflit d'intérêts

MFP receives speaker fees from Depuy Synthes, TS is consultant of Depuy Synthes. DN, AD, RK, HH and AE declared to have no conflict of interest.