dorsal plate for the distal radius was designed to provide rigid fixat
ion and thus allow early motion. It functions as a blade plate, lessen
ing the role of metaphyseal screws, and providing internal neutralizat
ion rather than compression. The rigidity and strength of the plate we
re compared to the existing T-plate in an unstable, extra-articular fr
acture model in paired, fresh-cadaver, axially loaded radii. The dorsa
l plate construct was significantly stronger and more rigid than the T
-plate construct. The failure mode was similar for both plate types; 8
of 10 constructs failed with plate bending and screw loosening, while
the oldest specimen pair showed primary bone failure. Compared to the
T-plate, the dorsal plate transmitted a greater single axial load fro
m the articular surface to the shaft.