Effects of Near Cortical Slotted Holes in Locking Plate Constructs

The development of locked plating has led to substantial improvements in fracture fixation. This is particularly evident in periarticular fractures, in which conventional nonlocking plates are unable to support the articular surface from a single side. Initially, locked plating appeared to be the ideal solution for these situations and reduced the necessity for double plating and secondary bone grafting. However, with increasing use of locked plating, it became evident that the plate-bone interaction is rigid and may lead to impaired bone healing. The near cortical locking holes increased the construct stiffness and appeared to interfere with local healing. Slotted near cortical locking holes might improve this drawback. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the healing process associated with different types of near cortical locking options.