Biomechanical evaluation of locking compression plate (LCP) versus dynamic compression plate (DCP): A finite element analysis

Abstract

Internal fixators are commonly used to treat long bone fractures, its aim is to provide interfragmentary compression, allow limited micromotion and provide stability to the bone for ambulation. However, complications such as non-unions, malunions and broken implant, can occur due to the complexity of mechanical force acting on the bone-plate models. Therefore, this study is proposed to investigate the biomechanical characterization of plate design on a tibia bone using finite element method. Two different designs, 1) locking compression plate (LCP) and dynamic compression plate (DCP) were simulated by using Marc.Mentat software. From the findings, the LCP have lower peak von Mises stress (VMS) distribution of 160 MPa compared to DCP with VMS value of 232 MPa. Surprisingly, the VMS of DCP plate system have exceed the yield strength of stainless steel (215 MPa) which translate to higher risk of failures. Moreover, the DCP plate system shows 50% lower stability compared to the LCP plate system, which has the peak displacement at 0.98 mm compared to the DCP bone at 1.53 mm. In conclusion, the LCP provides better stability and stress distribution up to 45% differences as compared to the DCP.