Abstract
Objectives
To compare immediate, static interfragmentary compression patterns of three tibial
plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) plate designs.
Study Design
TPLO was performed on 15 synthetic canine tibiae (SYNBONE AG, Switzerland) using 3D-printed
guides. Compression was evaluated using pressure-sensitive films (Prescale, Fujifilm,
UK). Three 3.5-mm TPLO plates were tested according to the manufacturer guidelines
for dynamic compression screws placement: Synthes, Arthrex, and Biocurve. Each plate
was tested five times using a new bone model. The interfragmentary surface was divided
into quadrants: Q1 (craniomedial), Q2 (craniolateral), Q3 (caudomedial), and Q4 (caudolateral).
Compression was classified as low (<0.12 MPa), moderate (0.12–0.25 MPa), or high (>0.25
MPa).
Results
Significant differences in overall interfragmentary compression were found among the
plates (p < 0.001). The Biocurve plate generated the highest and most uniform compression (Q1:
0.285 ± 0.023 MPa; Q2: 0.304 ± 0.010 MPa; Q3: 0.220 ± 0.014 MPa; Q4: 0.237 ± 0.010
MPa). The Arthrex plate produced high compression in Q2 (0.292 ± 0.012 MPa) and moderate
in other quadrants (Q1: 0.177 ± 0.016 MPa; Q3: 0.141 ± 0.011 MPa; Q4: 0.189 ± 0.013
MPa). The Synthes plate showed the lowest compression throughout (Q1: 0.050 ± 0.008
MPa; Q2: 0.075 ± 0.009 MPa; Q3: 0.111 ± 0.008 MPa; Q4: 0.109 ± 0.008 MPa).
Conclusion
The Biocurve plate, with two angled dynamic compression screw holes, provided the
highest, most uniform compression. Further studies are needed to assess clinical relevance.
Keywords
TPLO - interfragmentary compression - compression patterns - tibial plateau leveling
osteotomy - cranial cruciate ligament disease
