Fracture Fixation and Hybrid Plates -- Presented by OsteoMed

Fracture Fixation for the Hand

Here at OsteoMed, it’s our job to monitor and improve upon the most cutting-edge techniques and technologies for fracture fixation, among other surgical needs. In the case of fracture fixation for the hand, the rapid evolution of internal fixation options has led to a major debate between the proponents of locking versus non-locking pates for internal fracture fixation.

Locking Versus Non-Locking Plates

The cause for debate between these two surgical solutions is justified. Both have documented benefits. The standard non-locking surgical constructs allow for fracture reduction through the use of non-locking screws along with plate placement. As the bone continues to advance, the plate is pulled into contact with the bone.

But non-locking plate/screw construction is only as strong as the weakest point in the bone, since the entire configuration relies on bone contact. Toggling of a single screw can cause the entire plate to disengage.

On the other hand, locking plates provide a more stable interaction between the plate and the screws with no toggling. The entire construct must fail before the plate could dislodge. Locking plates thus increase stability and also reduce periosteal disruption.

It would sound as if locking plates win, hands-down. But with locking systems the fracture reduction and placement must be absolutely meticulous. Once the plates are internally fixed, they are fixed.

Resolving the Debate

The debate over locking versus non-locking techniques might best be solved by a combination of the best of each technique for a solution that outperforms either predecessor. Hybrid plating takes advantage of both locking and non-locking constructs to increase both strength and stability. That’s why it’s now increasingly used by surgeons to effectively manage fractures of the hand.

The equipment used in hybrid plating constructs combine the best of both methods by using a mix of locking and non-locking screws. Though such hybrid techniques were initially discouraged, recent studies are documenting the advantages of hybrid plating and the benefits of these techniques are quickly being recognized.

The Hybrid “Hand Plating System”

OsteoMed is a leading global develop and manufacturer of innovative specialty medical devices. It’s our job to be on the cutting edge, and it’s our research and positioning that have allowed us to create the comprehensive hybrid Hand Plating System (HPS).

The versatile HPS system provides 5 different screw options and about 50 different plates. Our numerous interoperative options help you best address the individual personality of each hand fracture. Polished surfaces and rounded edges ensure the safest and most comfortable integration for your patient.

The system offers both non-locking and variable-angle locking screws that will work together in the same plate, and both solid and cannulated lag screws for a variety of compression options including dual compression hole configurations. Low-profile plate and screw options work seamlessly across a variety of situations and hand sizes, with unique and stable angled locking in three sizes.

For more information on OsteoMed’s hand plating system, visit our website at osteomed.com/hps or find your local representative by calling our customer service department at 1-800-456-7779.