Mechanical comparison of fixation techniques for the offset V osteotomy: a saw bone study

Four different techniques for the fixation of an offset V bunionectomy were tested on solid-foam saw-bone models for the purpose of determining the strongest form of fixation for the osteotomy. Twenty identical models were placed into 4 different groups. Groups varied as to the placement and caliber of fixation. Models were loaded with a servo-hydraulic testing machine until failure of fixation occurred. Video analysis was used to record the pattern of failure of the fixation. Failure occurred either distal to the first screw, through the first screw hole, between the 2 screws, through the second screw hole, or proximal to the second screw. The mean force to failure of the groups was group 1, 58.1 N; group 2, 59.3 N; group 3, 64.0 N; and group 4, 105.66 N. There was a statistical significant difference between group 4 and the other 3 groups (F(1) = 55.45, P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference between groups 1 to 3. In groups 1 to 3, 87% of the failures were through the distal screw hole, whereas the remaining 13% were through the proximal screw hole. In group 4, 60% of the failures were through the proximal screw hole and 40% were through the distal screw hole. It was concluded that, in this model, the strongest form of fixation for an offset V osteotomy was the 2.7-mm cortical screw placed distally with the proximal point of fixation being a threaded 0.062-inch Kirschner wire.