A mechanical comparison of equine proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis techniques: an axial locking compression plate and two abaxial transarticular cortical screws versus an axial dynamic compression plate and two abaxial transarticular cortical screws.
Authors: Sod Gary A, Riggs Laura M, Mitchell Colin F, Martin George S
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary: PIP Joint Arthrodesis Fixation Techniques Proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis remains a common surgical salvage procedure in equine practice, yet optimal fixation construct design remains debated. Researchers conducted an in vitro biomechanical comparison of two surgical configurations: an axial locking compression plate (ELCP) paired with two abaxial transarticular lag screws versus a traditional dynamic compression plate (DCP) with the same abaxial screw arrangement, testing monotonic loading properties to failure across cadaveric equine specimens. The locking plate construct (ELCP-TLS) demonstrated superior resistance to implant failure and maintained greater construct stiffness throughout loading cycles, suggesting enhanced stability particularly relevant for weight-bearing limbs in athletic horses. For practitioners, these findings support consideration of locking plate technology in cases where maximal construct rigidity is desired, though both constructs maintained adequate fixation for the two-abaxial-screw supplementation strategy that has become standard in clinical practice. The biomechanical advantage of locking compression plating may prove especially valuable in larger, heavier horses or those returning to demanding work, though long-term clinical outcomes would further validate whether this laboratory advantage translates to improved healing rates and reduced complications in field conditions.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Both fixation techniques combine an axial plate with abaxial screws; understanding the biomechanical differences helps surgeons select the most appropriate method for individual cases
- •The choice between locking and dynamic compression plates for PIP arthrodesis should consider the specific biomechanical properties demonstrated in this in vitro comparison
Key Findings
- •Comparison of biomechanical properties between locking compression plate (ELCP-TLS) and dynamic compression plate (DCP-TLS) fixation techniques for equine PIP joint arthrodesis
- •Study evaluated monotonic mechanical properties of two surgical stabilization methods using axial plates combined with abaxial transarticular cortical screws