Which of the following fixation constructs provides ABSOLUTE stability at a fracture site?

• A Bridge plating of a comminuted metaphyseal fracture
• B Locked intramedullary nailing of a diaphyseal fracture
• C External fixator spanning a tibial plateau fracture
• D Lag screw fixation of an oblique fracture with neutralisation plating ✓

Explanation

Lag screw fixation compresses the fracture fragments together and eliminates interfragmentary motion, providing absolute stability and permitting primary bone healing. Bridge plates, locked nails and spanning external fixators deliberately allow micromotion and rely on callus formation, which is relative stability and secondary healing. Matching construct to fracture personality is a core AO principle examined repeatedly.

Reference: Rockwood and Green's Fractures in Adults, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.