Comparison of a 3-hole 4.5-mm Dynamic Compression Plate and a 7-hole 5.5-mm Y Locking Compression Plate for Arthrodesis of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint in Horses—an Ex Vivo Biomechanical Study

• Published in: Journal of equine veterinary science 2020-11, Vol.94, p.103252-103252, Article 103252
• Main Authors: Latorre, Carlos Adolfo Salazar, de Souza, Anderson Fernando, Ramos, Paula Andrea Ramírez, Nóbrega, Fernanda Silveira, van de Graaf, Guilherme Maia Mulder, Pereira, César Augusto Martins, Ferrigno, Cássio Ricardo Auada, Hendrickson, Dean A., De Zoppa, André Luís do Valle
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animals; Arthrodesis - veterinary; Biomechanical Phenomena; Bone Plates; Forelimb; Horses; Lameness; Orthopedics; Osteoarthritis; Pastern; Toe Joint - diagnostic imaging
• ISSN: 0737-0806; 1542-7412
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103252

The objective of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties in a single cycle axial loading test and the types of failures in two constructs (a 3-hole 4.5-mm dynamic compression plate (DCP) and 7-hole 5.5-mm Y locking compression plate (Y-LCP)) in equine proximal interphalangeal joint (PIJ) arthrodesis. One limb in each pair was randomly assigned to PIJ arthrodesis using a 3-hole 4.5-mm DCP combined with two transarticular 5.5-mm cortical screws, whereas the contralateral limb was submitted to PIJ arthrodesis using a 7-hole Y-shaped 5.0-mm LCP in conjunction with one transarticular 4.5-mm cortical screw inserted through the central plate hole. Cortical screws were inserted in lag fashion. Constructs were submitted to a single axial load cycle to failure. Construct stiffness, load, and deformation were analyzed. Dynamic compression plate and Y-LCP arthrodesis constructs did not differ significantly and were equally resistant to axial loading under the conditions studied (DCP and Y-LCP group stiffness, 5685.22 N/mm and 6591.10 N/mm, respectively). Arthrodesis of the PIJ using a DCP and two transarticular 5.5-mm cortical screws or a Y-LCP yielded biomechanically equivalent outcomes under the test conditions considered. However, Y-LCP provides less impact in the palmar/plantar bone. Application of Y-LCP with unicortical screws has equivalent biomechanical characteristics of DCP and may be a safe option for PIJ arthrodesis, where potential trauma secondary to applying bicortical screws in the palmar/plantar aspect of the pastern can be avoided. •Arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint using a dynamic compression plate or Y-shaped locking compression plate (Y-LCP) yielded biomechanically equivalent outcomes.•The Y-LCP provides less impact in the bone and maybe faster for clinical settings.•The Y-LCP with unicortical screws may reduce potential trauma in the palmar/plantar aspect of the pastern.