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The effect of radiation on the fracture repair process. A biomechanical evaluation of a closed fracture in a rat model
Author(s) -
Markbreiter Lance A.,
Pelker Richard R.,
Friedlaender Gary E.,
Peschel R.,
Panjabi M. M.
Publication year - 1989
Publication title -
journal of orthopaedic research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.041
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 1554-527X
pISSN - 0736-0266
DOI - 10.1002/jor.1100070204
Subject(s) - bone healing , torsion (gastropod) , intramedullary rod , stiffness , medicine , fracture (geology) , biomechanics , orthodontics , surgery , materials science , anatomy , composite material
The effects of a single dose of irradiation on the biomechanical parameters of the fracture healing process were studied in a rat model. Intramedullary pinning was performed before production of a closed femoral midshaft fracture. The experimental group was exposed to 900 rad 3 days after fracture and was compared with a control group with a similar fracture that received no irradiation. Animals were killed at intervals ranging from 2–16 weeks after surgery and the bones were tested until failure in torsion. In the irradiated groups, a delay of 4 weeks was noted in the biomechanical parameters associated with fracture healing (torque to failure, torsional stiffness, angle to failure, and biomechanical stage). Despite this delay in the normal temporal progression, the staging and stiffness approached normal controls within an 8‐week period. However, the torque to failure remained below normal levels at the conclusion of this study. These results differ from a previous study using an open fracture model.