3D-Printed 3.5 mm LCP Titanium Plate for Accessory Carpal Bone Fracture Repair in Horses

Introduction: Two accessory carpal bone fracture configurations are common: simple frontal plane and comminuted fractures. Conservative treatment leads to delayed fracture healing and malunion.

Antebrachiocarpal joint osteoarthrosis and carpal canal syndrome are common complications. Despite the challenging anatomy of the bone, internal fixation should be the preferred treatment option to achieve reduction, compression, and bone union. The authors describe and evaluate retrospectively the effectiveness of a novel 3D-printed 6-hole 3.5 mm LCP titanium plate for the treatment of displaced accessory carpal bone fractures.

Materials and Methods: Eight accessory carpal bone fracture cases underwent open reduction (manual or pin leverage technique) and stabilization with a 3D-printed 6-hole 3.5 mm LCP titanium plate. The implant is designed to fit the lateral, tension side of the bone and be placed above the ulnaris lateralis tendon. Placement and angulation of the locking head screws was chosen to maximize bone purchase. The plate was combined with a 4.7 mm conical headless compression screw in four cases and a 3-hole reconstruction 3.5 mm locking plate in one highly comminuted case. Data collection included history and signalement, pre- and postoperative radiographic assessment, intraoperative surgical records, follow-up information and outcome.

Results: The clinical outcome was considered excellent in four cases and good in three cases. A major complication was associated with a poor functional outcome in one case. Implants were removed in two cases after late implant failure occurred.

Discussion/Conclusion: Open reduction and stabilization using the 3D-printed 3.5 mm LCP titanium plate offers a promising solution to increase the functional outcome of accessory carpal bone fractures.

Acknowledgments: There was no proprietary interest or funding provided for this project.

Publication History

Article published online:
11 September 2023