Evaluation of a Feline Bone Surrogate and In Vitro Mechanical Comparison of Small Interlocking Nail Systems in Mediolateral Bending

 

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Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to (1) evaluate bending structural properties of a machined short fibre epoxy (SFE) feline bone surrogate (FBS), (2) compare the bending behaviour of small angle-stable interlocking nails (I-Loc; Targon) and locking compression plates (LCP) and (3) evaluate the effect of implant removal on FBS bending strength.

Methods Part 1: Feline cadaveric femurs (n = 10) and FBS (n = 4) underwent cyclic four-point bending and load to failure. Part 2: Fracture gap FBS constructs (n = 4/group) were stabilized in a bridging fashion with either I-Loc 3 and 4, Targon 2.5 and 3.0, LCP 2.0 and 2.4, then cyclically bent. Part 3: Intact FBS with pilot holes, simulating explantation, (n = 4/group) underwent destructive bending tests. Bending compliance, angular deformation and failure moment (F_M) were statistically compared (p < 0.05).

Results Native bone and FBS were similar for all outcome measures (p > 0.05). The smallest and largest bending compliance and angular deformation were seen in the I-Loc 4 and LCP 2.0 respectively (p < 0.05). While explanted Targon FBS had the lowest F_M (p < 0.05), I-Loc and LCP constructs F_M were not different (p > 0.05).

Conclusion The similar bending properties of short fibre epoxy made FBS and native feline femurs suggest that this model could be used for mechanical testing of implants designed for feline long bone osteosynthesis. The I-Loc constructs smaller angular deformation which also suggests that these implants represent a valid alternative to size-matched Targon and LCP for feline fracture osteosynthesis. The significantly lower F_M of explanted Targon may increase the risk of secondary fracture following implant removal.

Note

This study was presented in part at the 2020 ACVS Symposium online.

Authors' Contributions

D.M., D.V.P. and L.D. conceptualized and designed the study. D.M. and L.D. contributed to acquisition of data and data analysis and interpretation. All the authors drafted/revised and approved the submitted manuscript and are publically accountable for relevant content.

Publication History

Received: 09 May 2020

Accepted: 27 October 2020

Article published online:
27 December 2020

© 2020. Thieme. All rights reserved.

Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Rüdigerstraße 14, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany

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