title: Detection of internal fixation plate loosening by means of an analysis of vibratory responses.
abstract: This paper reports an in vitro investigation of a non-invasive method for detecting the loosening of internal fixation plates. The technique involves the electromechanical vibration of the fixation plate and the electromagnetic detection of its vibratory response. Frequency domain analysis of both fixed and loosened plates are compared and spectral artefacts are suggested as a means of classifying the mode and extent of plate loosening. An algorithm for the diagnosis of loose plates using the new approach is included.
authors.affiliation: School of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, University of Wales, Cardiff, UK.
authors.forename: D R
authors.initials: DR
authors.lastname: Bull
authors.forename: L D
authors.initials: LD
authors.lastname: Nokes
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Frampton
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D001860:Bone Plates; D055590:Electromagnetic Phenomena; D004868:Equipment Failure; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008838:Microcomputers; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted; D012985:Software Design; D013977:Tibia / Q000502:physiology; D014732:Vibration