Effect of Implant Linkage on Axial and Rotational Stiffness of Nail-Plate Constructs for Comminuted Distal Femoral Fractures.

In distal femur fractures with metaphyseal comminution, there were no significant differences in axial or torsional stiffness when linking the plate to the nail. Linking the construct appears to provide no significant mechanical advantage compared to the unlinked environment, but may be a useful strategy to reduce nail "traffic" in the distal segment with no significant disadvantage.