🔍 Key Findings
- 2.4 mm LCP with a 1.6 mm IM pin had the highest axial stiffness and yield strength among the tested constructs.
- Axial stiffness was significantly higher in the 2.4 mm LCP + 1.6 mm IM pin group compared to 2.7 mm LCP alone (p = .013).
- No significant difference in torsional stiffness was found among groups.
- 2.4 mm LCP + 1.0 mm pin had the lowest stiffness and failure load, underperforming both other constructs.
- All constructs failed via valgus bending, consistent with clinical observations in feline tibial fractures.
- A 1.6 mm pin (~50% canal fill) resulted in superior construct performance vs. 1.0 mm (~30% fill).
- Group 2 (2.4 LCP + 1.6 mm pin) outperformed the 2.7 mm LCP alone in stiffness, despite using a smaller plate.
- Plate–rod constructs may better preserve periosteal blood supply and support minimally invasive stabilization strategies.
