Fig. 4
Use of a Mg plate enhances callus formation relative to a Ti plate and strengthens bone relative to non-fracture controls. Internal fixation was performed on the right tibia of six-month-old female Japanese white rabbits in either the Ti (group T) or Mg (group M) plate groups (7 rabbits each). Bone union was confirmed 12 weeks later by X-ray analysis of all rabbits (A). Callus formation (B) and volume (C) were analyzed by micro–computed tomography (μCT) 12 weeks after surgery. Callus is highlighted in yellow (B). Graph showing mean callus volume (cm3) ± s.d. in T versus M groups (n = 3, *p < 0.05) (C). Biomechanical strength of bone at fracture union sites of the M group and at contralateral non-fracture sites, as assessed by three-point bending tests at 12 weeks after surgery (D). Graph represents mean peak force at failure (N) ± SD (each n = 4, *p < 0.05) at 12 weeks postoperatively.
