Biomechanical analysis of a transiliac internal fixator.

PURPOSE: We evaluated the biomechanical characteristics of the transiliac internal fixator (TIFI) as compared to two well-established methods of internal posterior pelvic ring fixation.

METHODS

Six freshly frozen human pelves were used for simulated single-leg stance loading of an AO type C injury model (pubic symphysis diastasis and unilateral sacroiliac joint disruption). The symphysis rupture was stabilized with a dynamic compression plate. Afterwards the three internal stabilization systems (TIFI, iliosacral screws and ventral plate osteosynthesis) were analysed. Fragment movement was measured in a contact-free manner with a stereophotometric infrared system.

RESULTS

No significant differences in the three-dimensional deformation tolerated by the TIFI as compared to the other internal fixation systems were found.

CONCLUSIONS

The transiliac internal fixator provides the same biomechanical stability as the other reference implants tested. We suggest the use of this device as a suitable alternative to the other implants.