Rib fracture healing after osteosynthesis with wire mesh titanium and screws: a histological study in sheep

Twenty sheep were placed under general anesthesia and five ribs (6-10) were transected at their lateral angle using a pair of rib shears. The fractures were stabilized by titanium wire mesh plates. After 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks groups of 4 animals were sacrificed and rib samples were prepared for histological examinations. The study showed that the osteosynthesis stabilized the fractures and that the healing is similar to untreated rib fractures. This osteosynthesis method is a good contribution to severe injured chest treatment.