Zimmer Biomet A.L.P.S., Surgical Technique

Page: 22 / 32

20 |
A.L.P.S.
Hand Fracture System
5. Determine appropriate plate
Determine the optimal plate shape and length.
• Select the proper plate size (either 1.5 for
phalangeal fractures or 2.5 for metacarpal
fractures)
• Transverse diaphyseal fractures require straight
plates; depending on the fracture geometry the
other plate shapes can be utilized
• These can be trimmed and shortened
depending on the decision regarding fixation
• Length can be assessed by placing the plate
on the bone. Trimming is performed prior to
fixation, but contouring can be performed
in-situ
6. Prepare the plate
Prepare the plate shape, length, and contour.
• It is highly recommended that the plates be
shortened by using the plate benders to create
a smooth edge and avoid soft tissue and tendon
irritation
• Do this by using the benders in the F.A.S.T.
Guide inserts and bending the end of the plate
towards the bottom of the plate section you
wish to keep
• Alternatively, in-situ contouring can be
performed after provisional plate fixation
proximally and distally to the fracture
Note: For the 1.5 mm small T plate, the cutter
must be used to shorten the spine due to space
limitations between the nodes