Biomechanical comparison of a proximal humeral locking plate using two methods of head fixation.

Hypothesis: Locking plates have emerged as the implant of choice for stabilization of proximal humeral fractures. The biomechanical properties of a locked plating system using smooth pegs vs threaded screws for fixation of the humeral head were compared to test the hypothesis that there would be no biomechanical difference between pegs and threaded screws.

Materials And Methods: Sixteen pairs of fresh frozen cadaveric humeri were randomized to have a surgical neck gap osteotomy stabilized with a locked plate using threaded screws (n=8) or smooth pegs (n=8).