Use of a non-anatomic mini-fragment fixation system for foot fractures.

BACKGROUND

Plating techniques for the fixation of foot fractures can utilize pre-contoured region-specific plates or non-anatomic non-specific mini-fragment plating systems, however there is limited published data describing complication rates.

METHODS

This study reviewed the complication rates and performed a cost analysis of 45 foot fractures that had fixation with the use of mini-fragment non-anatomic implants, comparing them to a series from the same centre fixed using anatomic implants and the published literature.

RESULTS

Complication rates seemed equivalent. Cost analysis demonstrated that non-anatomic implants were more expensive on average.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-anatomic mini-fragment fixation is an appropriate method for use in a variety of foot trauma situations, with comparable complication rates to pre-contoured implants, although the potential for cost savings has not been realized in this patient cohort.