Mathematical and experimental studies on the mechanics of plated transverse fractures

A combined experimental and mathematical stress analysis approach to study the mechanics of a plated transverse fracture is described. Experimental results were obtained by placing strain gages on an equine third metacarpal and a bone plate. Two mathematical models for the mechanics of a bone and bone plate are presented. One is based on simple beam bending theory. The other is based on a more refined finite element representation for the deformations. Comparisons of experimental data and predicted results from the simple model are given and discussed. These comparisons provide a degree of confidence in the ability of a theoretical model to represent the actual deformations. The comparisons also show limitations of the simple beam model and the need for a more refined model such as a finite element representation. The resulting stress protection of the bone due to the bone plate and the percentage of load transferred through the plate are presented for a uniform loading condition. The advantages of a combined experimental and theoretical mechanics study are pointed out.