Veterinary Orthopedic Plates: Types, Uses, and Benefits

Bone injuries in animals need strong, stable support to heal well. Plates hold broken bones together so they can mend the right way. These tools give surgeons control over how a fracture is fixed.

Different plates exist for different needs. Some help with knee issues. Others support complex fractures. The choice depends on the injury, the bone’s shape, and how much weight it bears. The right plate speeds up healing and brings back movement.

Types of Veterinary Orthopedic Plates

TPLO Plates

TPLO plates help dogs with torn cruciate ligaments. These injuries make the knee joint unstable, causing pain and stiffness. TPLO surgery changes how forces move through the knee. The plate keeps the bone steady while it heals.

These plates match the bone’s natural shape. They are made of titanium, which is strong and light. The low-profile design stops irritation. The smooth surface helps soft tissue glide over it without damage.

CBLO Plates

CBLO plates work for a procedure called Center of Rotation-Based Leveling Osteotomy. This surgery also treats knee instability. It is often used in younger or more active dogs.

These plates have a curved shape that fits the bone. They spread out pressure to lower the risk of damage. The design reduces the impact on blood flow, helping the bone heal faster.

SOP (String of Pearls) Plates

SOP plates are flexible. They work in many types of bone repair. Each plate has linked sections, like beads on a string. This lets the plate bend where needed, making it useful for tricky fractures.

These plates hold screws at different angles, giving more options for securing the bone. They come in various sizes, so they fit small and large animals. Some sets include plates, screws, and tools in one kit.

Reconstruction Locking Plates

These plates help fix fractures that need both support and movement. Some injuries need a plate that is both firm and able to flex. Reconstruction plates balance these needs.

They come with different hole patterns. This allows surgeons to place screws in the best spots. Made from titanium, they are strong and resist bending under pressure.

Uses of Veterinary Orthopedic Plates

Fracture Repair

Plates hold broken bones in place while they heal. They stop movement at the fracture site, reducing pain and helping bones fuse properly. Some fractures heal best with locking plates, while others need plates that allow slight movement.

Joint Stabilization

Some joint injuries make bones shift in ways they shouldn’t. Plates stop this from happening. TPLO and CBLO plates help keep knee joints stable after surgery.

Corrective Surgery

Some animals are born with bones that don’t line up right. Others develop deformities over time. Plates help straighten these bones and restore normal function.

Post-Trauma Support

Severe injuries need more than just a cast. Some fractures shatter the bone into pieces. Plates hold these pieces together so they can heal. Reconstruction and SOP plates work well for these cases.

Benefits of Using Orthopedic Plates

Strong and Reliable Healing

Bones need to stay still to heal well. Plates hold them firm, stopping unwanted movement. This lowers pain and speeds up recovery.

Custom Fit for Different Cases

Every bone is shaped a little differently. Some plates have curved designs to match them. Others have holes in different spots so screws can go where they’re needed.

Made from High-Quality Materials

Titanium is used for many plates because it is light, strong, and safe inside the body. It doesn’t rust or break down over time.

Less Damage to Soft Tissue

Low-profile plates don’t stick out much, so they don’t rub against muscles or skin. Some plates also have smooth edges that prevent irritation.

Conclusion

Orthopedic plates give animals a second chance at movement. They hold bones in place, help fix joint problems, and support recovery from serious injuries. Choosing the right plate matters. The size, shape, and type all play a part in healing. These tools make a big difference in veterinary care. They help pets get back on their feet and live without pain.