Carbon fibre reinforced epoxy as a high strength, low modulus material for internal fixation plates

A multi-axial carbon fibre/epoxy composite fracture plate has been developed. This type of plate appears to allow early consolidation of internally fixed fractures whilst avoiding the ensuing disadvantage of 'plate induced osteopoenia' which are observed with metal devices. The mechanical properties of these plates (determined 'in vitro') are reported, along with early results of implantation in sheep.