Finite element analysis of a novel anatomical plate in posterolateral plateau fractures

Objective: This study aims to analyze the biomechanical characteristics of posterolateral plateau fractures fixed by a novel anatomical plate using finite element analysis. Methods: A three-dimensional digital model of the full length of right tibiofibula was obtained by CT scanning. A posterolateral tibial plateau fracture model was then created. The acquired fracture model was assembled with 4 groups of internal fixations: Group A, novel anatomical plate; Group B, straight buttress plate; Group C, oblique T-shaped locking plate; Group D, two lag screws. Axial loads of 500, 1,000 and 1,500 N perpendicular to the horizontal plane were used to simulate the stress on the lateral plateau of a 65 kg person standing, walking and fast running. Results: Vertical displacements of the posterolateral fragments in each of the four groups gradually increased under loads from 500 N to 1,500 N. The maximum displacement of the fracture fragment in four groups were all located on the lateral side of the proximal part, and the displacement gradually decreased from the proximal part to the distal end. The maximum displacement values under the axial load of 1,500 N was in the following order: novel anatomical plate (1.2365 mm) < oblique T-shaped locking plate (1.314 mm) < two lag screws (1.3747 mm) < straight buttress plate (1.3932 mm). As the axial load increased, the stress value of the different internal fixation models gradually increased. The stress behavior of the same internal fixation model under different loads was similar. The maximum stress value under the axial load of 1,500 N was in the following order: novel anatomical plate (114.63 MPa) < oblique T-shaped locking plate (277.17 MPa) < two lag screws (236.75 MPa) < straight buttress plate (136.2 MPa). Conclusion: The patients with posterolateral plateau fractures fixed with a novel anatomical plate in standing, walking and fast running can achieve satisfactory biomechanical results, which lays the foundation for future applications. At the same time, clinical fracture types are often diverse and accompanied by damage to the soft tissue. Therefore, the ideal surgical approach and appropriate internal fixation must be selected based on the patient's injury condition.