Computational and Experimental Analysis of Calcium Triphosphate Reinforced Three Part Fracture Fixation

Complex three part proximal humerus fractures in osteoporotic patients are a particularly challenging injury to manage as the associated bone loss reduces the efficacy of standard fixation techniques. Locking plates are commonly used for three part fracture fixation. However, a clinical study conducted by Owsley et al [1] reports complications with 57% of patients over 60 years of age. In cases of severe bone loss an intramedullary (IM) bone graft implant can be used in conjunction with locking plates to improve fixation and to provide structural stability. The limited and variable availability of bone grafts mean high cost and variable material properties.