Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

Method and Instrumented Fixture for Femoral Fracture Testing in a Sideways Fall-on-the-Hip Position
Published on: August 17, 2017
Biomechanical properties of fixed-angle volar distal radius plates under dynamic loading
William J Dahl1, Paul F Nassab, Kraig M Burgess
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48103-5827, USA.
This study compared biomechanical properties of eight locked volar distal radius plates. All plates met anticipated demands, suggesting fracture configuration and surgeon familiarity are key selection factors.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic biomechanics
- Surgical implant technology
Background:
- Distal radius fractures are common, necessitating effective fixation.
- Locked fixed-angle volar plates are widely used for distal radius fracture treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the biomechanical properties of eight different locked fixed-angle volar distal radius plates.
- To evaluate plate performance under simulated early fracture healing and rehabilitation forces.
Main Methods:
- Eight locked fixed-angle volar distal radius plates were tested.
- Plates were affixed to synthetic radii with standardized dorsal wedge osteotomies.
- Cyclic loading (100 N, 200 N, 300 N for 6000 cycles) was applied to assess load deformation, displacement, and yield strength.
Main Results:
- The Wright plate demonstrated superior stiffness at 100 N and 300 N compared to some other plates.
- Zimmer and Hand Innovations plates exhibited the highest yield strengths.
- Significant differences in stiffness and yield strength were observed among the tested plates.
Conclusions:
- All tested locked volar distal radius plates met anticipated biomechanical demands.
- Plate selection should prioritize fracture configuration, screw placement, cost, and surgeon familiarity.
- This study offers valuable biomechanical data for surgeons treating distal radius fractures.
Related Concept Videos
Normal Strain under Axial Loading
Relation between Poisson's ratio, Modulus of Elasticity and Modulus of Rigidity
Deformation of Member under Multiple Loadings
In the case of a member with a variable cross-section, the strain is not constant but depends on the position. The deformation of an...
General Case of Eccentric Axial Loading
Consider a member subjected to equal and opposite forces that are applied along a line that does not coincide with the member's neutral axis. In unsymmetrical bending,...
Stresses under Combined Loadings
The process begins by slicing the tube at critical points and analyzing the internal forces and stress components at these sections, focusing on the centroid. Normal stresses, generated by axial forces and bending moments, are either compressive or tensile and vary across the section from...
Impact Loading
In cases of elastic deformation,...
