Distractive force relative to initial graft compression in an in vivo anterior cervical discectomy and fusion model.

Study Design: An in vivo biomechanical anterior cervical discectomy and instrumented fusion (ACDFI) model employing a calibrated distractor and a subminiature load cell used to intraoperatively measure distractive force across the discectomy site and subsequent compressive force across the interbody load cell following distractor removal.

Objective: To determine the relationship between the distractive force and resultant initial graft compression in an in vivo ACDFI model.

Summary Of Background Data: The relationship between the distractive force and subsequent graft compression following distractor removal has not been studied in an in vivo ACDFI model.

A biomechanical study of plate versus intramedullary devices for midshaft clavicle fixation.

Background: Non-operative management of midshaft clavicle fractures is standard; however, surgical management is increasing. The purpose of this study is to compare the biomechanical performance of plate versus intramedullary fixation in cyclic bending for matched pairs of cadaveric clavicles. We hypothesized that the biomechanical properties are similar.

In vitro analysis of rotator cuff repairs: a comparison of arthroscopically inserted tacks or anchors with open transosseous repairs.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to employ a cyclic loading protocol to compare rotator cuff repair strengths of arthroscopically inserted cuff tacks and suture anchors with the traditional open transosseous suture repair.

Type Of Study: In vitro cadaveric analysis.

Methods: Full-thickness 1 x 3-cm rotator cuff defects were created in 25 fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders, and were randomized to 1 of 4 repair groups: (1) open repair with transosseous sutures, (2) arthroscopic repair with 2 singly loaded suture anchors, (3) arthroscopic repair with 2 doubly loaded suture anchors, and (4) arthroscopic repair with cuff tacks.