Information for Patients

From the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

The Use of Locking Plates in Fracture Care: Biomechanics, Techniques, Pearls, and Pitfalls

by Robert V. Cantu, MD; Kenneth Koval, MD

This OKO topic reviews the development of locked plating in surgical fracture care. The concept of a locked "internal fixator" changed the traditional approach to fracture plating. The authors describe the technique of locked plating, its indications and contraindications, pearls and pitfalls, and briefly discuss the outcomes achieved through its use.

The authors provide thorough discussions of surgical fracture stabilization and the strains occurring at the fracture site, primary and secondary bone healing, and plate biomechanics. This topic focuses on the LISS System (Less Invasive Stabilization System), and includes video of the surgical procedure.

Keywords: locked plating, advantages, development of locked plates, indications, surgical techniques, PC-fix, Less Invasive Skeletal Stabilization system, LISS system, outcomes

If you are an AAOS Member or an OKO subscriber, you can view this topic after log in.

If you are a health care professional who is not an AAOS Member or OKO subscriber, you can get more information about subscribing here. Information for patients and the general public can be accessed through the links in the gray box above.

Back to Menu