A method for making reproducible experimental fractures of the rabbit tibia

A method for making reproducible fractures of the tibia of the rabbit is described. The fractures may be stabilized by plating with either metallic compression, or plastic plates. If a stainless steel dynamic compression plate is used, the rigid immobilization of the fragments leads to direct Haversian remodelling across the fracture, i.e. primary healing, whereas when a plastic plate is used, the fixation is unstable and this leads to secondary healing with the development of a cartilaginous callus. Thus the method of healing may be determined predictably.