🔍 Key Findings
- Two-pin fixation had significantly greater strength (639 N) than single-pin fixation (426 N) in TTAF models (p = .003).
- Stiffness was also higher with two-pin constructs (72 N/mm vs 57 N/mm); statistically significant (p = .029).
- Both fixation types withstood loads greater than quadriceps force in dogs at a walk (240 N), indicating clinical viability.
- Failure was most commonly due to pin bending or pullout (82%), with fewer cases of ligament tearing or epiphyseal fracture.
- K-wire insertion angle (KWIA) did not significantly differ between fixation types (p = .13).
- Single larger pins delivered ~68% of the strength and ~83% of the stiffness of two smaller vertically aligned pins.
- Clinical implication: Two vertically aligned pins are biomechanically superior for TTAF fixation in canine models.
- Study used mature cadavers, which may underestimate loads and stiffness compared to immature clinical cases.
