Beskrywing

Cloverleaf Fusion Locking Plate

V&A

V1: What is a Cloverleaf Fusion Locking Plate used for?

A1: It is designed for bone fusion and fracture fixation, particularly in small bones such as the foot and ankle, or in metatarsal, tarsal, and distal radius regions. Its cloverleaf shape provides multi-directional screw fixation around the fusion site.

V2: Why is it called a “Cloverleaf” plate?

A2: The plate is named for its three-lobed (cloverleaf) design, which allows screw placement in multiple directions, offering better load distribution and multidirectional stability.

V3: What are the main advantages of using a Cloverleaf Fusion Locking Plate?

A3: It provides stable fixation, high resistance to torsional and bending forces, and excellent compression across the fusion site, promoting faster bone healing and alignment maintenance.

V4: What material is the Cloverleaf Fusion Plate made of?

A4: Most plates are made from titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) or medical-grade stainless steel, providing strength, biocompatibility, and compatibility with imaging (MRI/CT).

V5: What types of screws are compatible with the plate?

A5: It typically uses locking screws for fixed-angle stability and non-locking or compression screws for dynamic compression across the fusion area.

V6: In which surgeries is the Cloverleaf Fusion Locking Plate commonly used?

A6: It is frequently applied in foot and ankle fusion procedures (such as 1st MTP joint, talonavicular, or midfoot fusion), small bone fractures, and sometimes in hand and wrist reconstructive surgeries.

V7: What are common postoperative outcomes with Cloverleaf Fusion Plates?

A7: Patients typically experience high fusion rates, reduced hardware failure, and lower rates of nonunion compared to traditional non-locking plates, due to the enhanced stability of the locking mechanism.