DePuy Orthopaedics Inc. Anatomic Locked Plating Systems For Trauma Now Available For Hand And Distal Fibula Fractures

DePuy Orthopaedics Inc. (DePuy), a global leader in devices for joint replacement and trauma, announced the launch of the Anatomic Locked Plating Systems (A.L.P.S.) for Hand and Distal Fibula Fractures, here at the 76th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

The A.L.P.S. Hand Fracture System and the A.L.P.S. Composite Locking Plate System offer anatomically-designed titanium plating technology utilizing low profile, high strength plates.

These plates provide the flexibility of in-situ contourability to mimic the patient’s natural anatomy and multiple screw and fixation options. The low profile design helps minimize discomfort and soft tissue irritation.

The A.L.P.S. Hand Fracture System is the company’s first plating system for complex fractures of metacarpal and phalangeal bones. The System’s uniquely contoured plates mimic the anatomy of the fingers and are available in five styles that can be used to treat a wide range of fractures using titanium alloy and cobalt chrome screws for strong and stable fixation.

The low profile design, strength and stability of the A.L.P.S. Composite Locking Plate System make it particularly well suited for distal fibula procedures, which often involve complex fractures and minimal tissue coverage. The small-fragment plate features a bulleted tip at the proximal end to facilitate insertion under the muscles of the lower leg.

Both plating systems come pre-loaded with DePuy unique disposable and color-coded Fixed Angle Screw Targeting Guides (F.A.S.T. Guide™ inserts). The Guides direct the trajectory of the drill-bit through the plate to facilitate accurate screw placement after drilling the hole. This has the potential to save time in the operating room since no intra-operative assembly of the guides is required.

“The A.L.P.S. family of plating solutions enables surgeons to provide treatment to suit both the anatomy and complexity of the fracture,” said Gordon Van Ummersen, Worldwide President, DePuy Trauma and Extremities, DePuy Orthopaedics, Inc. “We’ll continue to build on this innovative and versatile locked plating technology through the launch of additional anatomic modules over the next year.”

In addition to these two new systems, DePuy has A.L.P.S. Small Fragment, Large Fragment and Distal Tibia Plating Systems that combine the benefits of locking screw technology with conventional plating techniques. This hybrid plate concept allows surgeons to stabilize fractures with non-locking screws through the plate and then obtain neutralization of the construct with locking screws.

“A.L.P.S. is designed to provide surgeons versatility, strength and the ability to mimic the patient’s own anatomy in look and feel,” said Roy Sanders, MD, Chief, Department of Orthopaedics, Tampa General Hospital, Director, Orthopaedic Trauma Services, Florida Orthopaedic Institute, and a design surgeon for the A.L.P.S. Composite Locking Plate System.

A.L.P.S. plates are treated with DePuy’s proprietary TiMAX™ process that reduces friction and provides a smooth, uniform surface while increasing the alloy’s fatigue strength.

To support its portfolio of trauma products, DePuy facilitates education and training at its Trauma Professional Training and Education Center (TPEC) in Miami, which opened in April 2008.

As with any medical treatment, individual results with fracture surgery may vary. There are potential risks, and recovery takes time. Patients are encouraged to consult an orthopaedic surgeon.

Source: Depuy Orthopaedics

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