This project is a design for a new fracture model that demonstrates the biomedical properties of metaphyseal distal third tibia fractures treated with intramedullary nailing without provisional reduction plating versus intramedullary nailing with provisional reduction plating. The strength and design of the model will be established by the use of finite element method (FEM) software before the physical development of the model is completed. This step will give more reason to believe the physical model will be accurate. This model will then be able to provide accurate and clear results. The need for this model is demonstrated mainly in orthopedic surgery where it can demonstrate the advantages and disadvantages of intramedullary nailing with or without reduction plating, as there are patients who come in with open, type III fractures which will require surgical repair. Currently, there are no models used in these applications, so it can be difficult for orthopedic surgeons to understand or develop new methods of repair for fractures. Although the immediate application would be to demonstrate how the tibia would react to different methods of reductional plating, the creation of this model could lead to further development of fracture models of other long bones. 

Dr. Gary Bledsoe, gary.bledsoe@slu.edu; Dr. Bledsoe was very helpful during the design and testing of the tibia fracture model. He provided his expert assistance to help guide our group with making the best design possible. Our group would like to thank Dr. Bledsoe for his help.