Design and biomechanical study of a novel low-profile anatomical plate for the posterior malleolus

doi:10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.4.11

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Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy ›› 2026, Vol. 44 ›› Issue (4) : 441-447. DOI: 10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.4.11

Design and biomechanical study of a novel low-profile anatomical plate for the posterior malleolus

Chen Ke¹, Sun Jingfu ^1,2*, Zhu Shun², Wu Rentao², Wang Xiangwei², Pan Lian², Fang Jianming², Yuan Jiayao²

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Abstract

Objective To design and develop a novel low-profile anatomical plate for posterior malleolus, and analyze its biomechanical properties. Methods Three-dimensional reconstructed CT data of 100 cases of non-fractured ankles from April 2018 to May 2021 in the imaging database of Dongguan Houjie Hospital were collected to obtain posterior malleolus anatomical parameters. A dedicated low-profile anatomical plate for posterior malleolus fracture (referred to as the novel posterior malleolus plate) was designed. Twelve adult ankle cadaver specimens were used to establish posterior malleolus fracture models and divided into two groups according to CT values. The novel posterior malleolus plate and the conventional T-shaped posterior malleolus plate (control plate) were fixed respectively, followed by biomechanical testing and data analysis. Three-dimensional finite element analysis was performed to compare the biomechanical characteristics between the novel plate fixation model and the control plate fixation model. Results Compared with the control plate, biomechanical tests showed there were no significant differences in vertical compression and torsion tests in the novel plate (P>0.05), while significant difference was observed in maximum load test (P<0.05). Finite element analysis confirmed that the novel posterior malleolus plate exhibited significantly better biomechanical stability, closer bone surface fitting, easier operation, and lower risk of screw penetration into the joint. Conclusions The novel low-profile anatomical plate for posterior malleolus features excellent anatomical matching, convenient operation, and superior biomechanical performance.

Key words

Posterior malleolus fracture; / / Biomechanical study; / / 3D finite element analysis; / / Novel plate design

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Chen Ke, Sun Jingfu, Zhu Shun, Wu Rentao, Wang Xiangwei, Pan Lian, Fang Jianming, Yuan Jiayao. Design and biomechanical study of a novel low-profile anatomical plate for the posterior malleolus[J]. Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy. 2026, 44(4): 441-447 https://doi.org/10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.4.11

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