ABSORBABLE PLUGS OF SELF-REINFORCED POLY-L-LACTIC ACID IN THE INTERNAL-FIXATION OF RABBIT DISTAL FEMORAL OSTEOTOMIES

An absorbable plug for the internal fixation of fractures and osteotom ies, measuring 4.5 mm in diameter and 30 mm in length, was constructed of poly-L-lactide using a self-reinforcing fibers-inmatrix manufactur ing technique. To increase the rotational stability and grip of the de vice, the plug has deployable distal fins. The plug was used in the fi xation of a transverse distal femoral osteotomy in 20 rabbits. The con solidation of the osteotomy was investigated histologically, histomorp hometrically, and microradiographically in groups of five rabbits obse rved for three, six, 12, or 24 weeks. Fifteen osteotomies showed bony union. In five rabbits, no bridging trabeculae across the osteotomy ha d developed, but these rabbits belonged to the groups with the shortes t follow-up times of three or six weeks. No mechanical failures of the plugs were encountered, and the short-term biocompatibility of the im plant was excellent. Future clinical applications are planned.