Objective
To compare the biomechanical properties of a 5-hole 4.5 mm narrow locking compression plate (LCP) and 5-hole 4.5 mm narrow dynamic compression plate (DCP) for equine proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthrodesis.
Study Design
Experimental mechanical study.
Animals
Cadaveric adult equine forelimbs (n = 6 pair).
Methods
For each forelimb pair, 1 PIP joint was stabilized with LCP and the contralateral PIP joint with DCP. The 6 construct pairs were tested using a single-cycle, 3-point dorsopalmar bending system. PIP joints were evaluated with pre- and post-test radiography.
Results
The LCP technique had significantly greater yield load, failure load, and stiffness under single-cycle, 3-point dorsopalmar bending to failure than the DCP technique. There was no significant difference between the 2 constructs for displacement at yield and failure point.
Conclusions
Biomechanically, the LCP technique provided significantly greater stability than the DCP technique under the test condition.
