Together, our data show neither superiority nor inferiority of the FCL technique. This study is an important step in furthering investigations into FCL constructs. The finding of similar efficacy with FCL and conventional plating may assuage safety concerns and pave the way for more definitive studies of FCL technology and fuller evaluations of its effectiveness. These studies will be essential in determining whether the theoretical advantage of FCL translates into better clinical outcomes. Larger, prospective randomized studies with longer follow-ups will be needed to better compare FCL technology with current implants and techniques. At this early stage, however, FCL technology appears to be a viable option for complex fractures of the tibia.
Original Research
Treating Tibia Fractures With Far Cortical Locking Implants
Am J Orthop. 2016 February;45(2):E143-E147
Author and Disclosure Information
Christopher Rice, MD, Thomas Christensen, MD, Michael Bottlang, PhD, Dan Fitzpatrick, MS, MD, and Erik Kubiak, MD
Authors’ Disclosure Statement: This research was supported by the University of Utah Study Design and Biostatistics Center, with funding in part from the National Center for Research Resources and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (grant 8UL1TR000105, formerly UL1RR025764). Dr. Bottlang, Dr. Fitzpatrick, and Dr. Kubiak report that they are consultants for Zimmer. The other authors report no actual or potential conflict of interest in relation to this article.