Comparison of cerclage techniques using a hose clamp versus monofilament cerclage wire or cable

To assess the compressive force generated by different techniques of cerclage wiring, the compression produced by 6 different cerclage techniques, including monofilament wires, Dall-Miles cables (Howmedica, Rutherford, NJ), and hose clamps, was measured. Tests were performed on both a polysulfone cylinder model and a cadaver bone model. The hose clamp generated significantly higher compression force than any other cerclage device tested. Doubled wires produced similar compressive force as the cables. As the hose clamp is the least expensive and produces the maximum compression, it may be advantageous in instances in which maximum compression is desirable as a temporary device, but because it is not implantable, it must be replaced by other techniques prior to wound closure. The Dall-Miles cable is expensive and its compressive force can be equaled at lower cost by a doubled wire. The use of a single strand of monofilament wire was the least effective.