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The changes in biomechanical properties after bone plate fixation are influenced by multiple factors. The following introduces the changes from different aspects:
Early stage: In the early stage after bone plate fixation, since the fracture ends have not yet fully healed, the mechanical properties of the bone plate play a key role in maintaining the stability of the fracture. At this point, the bone plate needs to withstand the stress generated from muscle contraction, limb movement, etc., to prevent the displacement of the fracture end. However, as the blood supply at the fracture site may be disrupted to a certain extent, osteogenic activity is relatively weak and less callus formation occurs. Therefore, the biomechanical properties of the fracture site remain relatively low.
Mid-term stage: As fracture healing progresses, callus gradually forms and calcifies, and the stability of the fracture site gradually increases. At this time, the bone plate and the fracture site jointly bear the stress, and the mechanical properties of the bone plate are closely related to the fracture healing situation. If the fracture heals well and the callus forms fully, the biomechanical properties of the fracture site will gradually improve and be able to withstand greater stress. However, if the fracture heals poorly, such as when there is nonunion or delayed healing, the biomechanical properties of the fracture site will be difficult to recover and may even decline further.
Long-term stage: After the fracture has completely healed, the role of the bone plate gradually weakens, and the biomechanical properties of the fracture site mainly depend on the quality and quantity of the callus. If the callus forms well and the bone tissue recovers its normal structure and mechanical properties after remodeling, then the biomechanical properties of the fracture site will approach or reach the normal level. However, if callus formation is poor or there are conditions such as osteoporosis, the biomechanical properties of the fracture site will still be lower than the normal level.
In addition, the changes in biomechanical properties after bone plate fixation are also affected by other factors, such as the type, material, and fixation method of the bone plate. Different types of bone plates have different mechanical properties and indications. Selecting the appropriate bone plate is crucial for fracture healing and the recovery of biomechanical properties. Meanwhile, the material and fixation method of the bone plate will also affect its mechanical properties and stability.