title: Comparison of metal versus absorbable implants in tension-band wiring: a preliminary study.
abstract: The strength of tension-band wiring using bioabsorbable materials versus metal implants was assessed with a rabbit knee fusion model. Ten rabbit knees were osteotomized and rigidly fixed using a tension-band technique: five with metal implants (2 pins and 24-gauge wire) and five with absorbable implants (2-mm pins [Bionx, Blue Bell, Pa] and 1 Maxon [Davis and Geck, Danbury, Conn]). Biomechanical testing of the fixation strength was completed using a servohydraulic mechanical testing machine and a specifically designed four-point bending jig. The parameters assessed were maximal load, relative stiffness, displacement, and bending moment of the constructs. Results of the biomechanical testing showed no statistical difference between the constructs on any of the parameters assessed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedics and Physical Rehabilitation, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, USA.
authors.forename: W J
authors.initials: WJ
authors.lastname: Morgan
authors.forename: L A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Slowman
authors.forename: H M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Wotton
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Nairus
mesh_terms: D020341:Absorbable Implants; D000818:Animals; D001174:Arthrodesis; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001858:Bone Nails; D001864:Bone Wires; D008670:Metals; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D011817:Rabbits; D011897:Random Allocation
chemical_list: D008670:Metals